Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Huano Strawberry Latte offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black, renowned for its robust feel, boasts a heavier actuation at 60g and a bottom-out force of 70g, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more substantive typing experience. Its medium-high pitch sound adds an auditory richness, while the frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting for a more vibrant visual effect. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte is celebrated for its incredibly smooth performance, utilizing the latest molds from Huano to deliver a balanced sound profile that is neither too quiet nor overly resonant. Both linear switches have unique attributes that appeal to different types of users, whether you prioritize tactile feedback or sheer smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Huano Strawberry Latte, distinct characteristics emerge that highlight both their differences and similarities. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which produces a pointed, high-pitched sound profile often described as clacky. This sound is associated with the specific properties of the INK material, designed to enhance auditory feedback during key presses. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte employs a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and also characterized by a clacky sound profile. Despite their different compositions, both the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Strawberry Latte aim to deliver similar auditory experiences, appealing to users who appreciate pronounced sound feedback.
The bottom housings of the two switches further contribute to their overall sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing, renowned for producing a deeper and more muted sound. This depth arises from POM’s harder plastic properties, which shape the acoustic signature during bottom-out. Conversely, the Strawberry Latte incorporates a nylon bottom housing, noted for its ability to create a fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer plastic composition allows it to absorb sound more efficiently, resulting in a rounder and warmer auditory experience. Here, the contrast between the harder POM and the softer nylon illustrates how variations in material affect overall sound dynamics, with each contributing to a unique bottoming-out sensation and acoustic outcome.
Ultimately, the combination of different top and bottom housing materials influences the overall tactile and auditory sensations experienced when using these switches. The G Pro 3.0 Black’s INK blend and POM housing yield a high-pitched, deeper sound that is satisfying yet distinct. In comparison, the Huano Strawberry Latte’s use of POK and nylon results in a smoother tactile experience with a deeper and rounder auditory signature. Despite these differences in material characteristics, both switches can engage users through similar clacky feedback when pressed, showcasing how thoughtful design in switch materials can lead to varying yet complementary experiences in a mechanical keyboard context.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch to the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Black switch has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte switch is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This difference in weight can affect user experience: those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Strawberry Latte more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to press down. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel might gravitate towards the heftier G Pro 3.0 Black switch, which provides a firmer resistance. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Black is the heavier option, while the Strawberry Latte is the lighter choice, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there is a clear distinction: the G Pro 3.0 Black features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Strawberry Latte has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Black the longer option, providing a more traditional feel that some users may prefer for its depth and tactile feedback. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte's shorter travel distance caters to those who favor quicker response times, which is often sought after by gamers. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will hinge on your preference for either a more pronounced keystroke with the longer distance of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the snappier, more immediate feel offered by the Strawberry Latte.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a medium-high pitch auditory experience, characterized by a clacky sound that provides a sharp and snappy feedback. This crisp and bright sound can be satisfying for typists who enjoy audible feedback, though it might be somewhat more pronounced compared to other linear switches. On the other hand, while the Strawberry Latte switch doesn't have a specified sound profile, it is known for its balanced sound, which implies that it produces neither overly quiet nor excessively resonant feedback. This could lead to a more subdued typing experience that is pleasant without being distracting.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch presents a creamy and silky typing experience, designed to glide effortlessly under your fingers. With a medium-heavy pressure requirement, it can provide a tangible sense of resistance that many users find satisfying, effectively blending comfort with feedback. Meanwhile, the specific feel of the Strawberry Latte is not detailed, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. However, if it's engineered using advanced molds for smoothness, it is likely to offer a similarly pleasant tactile experience.
Overall, both switches cater to users looking for a quality linear typing experience but in slightly different ways. The G Pro 3.0 Black excels in producing a more audible, clacky sound that resonates well with those who enjoy tactile feedback in their typing sessions. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte's balanced sound, although unspecified, may lend itself to a more muted experience, potentially appealing to those in shared environments. Both options promise smooth keystrokes, but the G Pro’s heavier actuation and sound characteristics may set it apart for users seeking more pronounced auditory and tactile sensations, while the Strawberry Latte potentially offers a more versatile alternative for quieter setups.
Conclusion
To conclude, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches, your personal preferences and typing requirements will guide your decision. If you prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black is the ideal choice. With its medium-heavy resistance of 70 grams at bottom-out, this switch delivers a rich, clacky sound profile and a smooth feel, making it particularly satisfying for touch typists or those who enjoy typing for extended periods. Furthermore, its frosted light diffuser elevates RGB lighting effects, enhancing aesthetic appeal for gamers and enthusiasts alike. On the other hand, if you're someone who enjoys a lighter, more effortless typing experience, the Huano Strawberry Latte is highly recommended. With a bottom-out force of just 45 grams, it offers a swift and smooth keystroke that minimizes fatigue during long typing sessions. Its balanced sound profile ensures that while it is noticeable, it isn’t overpowering, making it suitable for various environments, including shared workspaces. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and workplace ambiance—whether you seek the robustness of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the sleek efficiency of the Strawberry Latte will shape your ultimate satisfaction with your mechanical keyboard.
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