Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to contemplate are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), both of which belong to the linear switch family. The G Pro 3.0 Black from Gateron boasts a reputation for premium quality while remaining budget-friendly. With a heftier 60g actuation force and 70g bottom-out force, it caters to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a distinctive blend of resonant and clacky characteristics, coupled with a factory lube job that ensures each keystroke feels incredibly smooth. Although both switches have appealing qualities, such as being clacky and silky, the G Pro delivers a more subdued and subtle typing experience compared to the Strawberry Wine's high-pitched notes. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Y3
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) bring unique qualities to each switch. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, creating a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing which produces a deeper and more muted sound. This highlights the contrast in sound profiles between the two switches.
In terms of bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black also utilizes POM material, contributing to its deeper and more muted sound profile. Meanwhile, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) employs a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition. This further emphasizes the differences in sound perceived when typing on these switches.
While the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) may differ, the impact they have on the overall sound profile of the switches is significant. The combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Understanding these differences can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, a clear difference can be seen. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, placing it in the light category. The lighter actuation force of the Strawberry Wine (V2) makes it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier forces of the G Pro 3.0 Black cater to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel. Both switches offer unique experiences depending on personal preference, with the G Pro 3.0 Black being the heavier option and the Strawberry Wine (V2) offering a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Sarokeys switch is slightly shorter than the Gateron switch. The difference may not be significant to some users, but for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Sarokeys switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, the Gateron switch with a slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the decision between the two would depend on individual preferences regarding travel distance.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a medium-high pitch, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) gives a higher-pitched and resonant tone. Both switches will provide a satisfying auditory experience, with the choice between them coming down to personal preference.
Moving on to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a creamy and silky typing experience, with a balanced medium-heavy feel due to its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. Conversely, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is focused on providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience, described as silky. Both switches aim to minimize resistance and provide a comfortable typing feel, catering to users who appreciate a smooth and effortless keystroke.
Considering all the available information, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a medium-heavy feel and a medium-high pitch sound, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a silky smooth typing experience with a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the desired typing feel and sound characteristics. However, users can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and satisfaction from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your preferences in terms of typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing feel with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force, as well as a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing feel with a smooth and silky typing experience, along with a resonant and clacky sound profile, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall experience you seek in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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