Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, individuals may find themselves torn between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch. The G Pro 3.0 Black from Gateron boasts a robust and substantial typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a heavier touch. In contrast, the Durock T1 offers a more tactile typing experience with a medium bump and a soothing sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a clacky and vibrant RGB lighting experience, the T1 offers a more subtle and polished typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock T1, we can see that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a thin, clacky sound that is pointed and not overly sharp. In contrast, the T1's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is clearer and more resonant due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Both materials offer distinct sound profiles, with the INK blend being more on the thinner and higher-pitched side, while polycarbonate delivers a crisper and sharper sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing produces a deeper and relatively muted sound profile that is unique and pleasing. On the other hand, the T1's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and deeper sound that is rounder and duller, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer deeper sound profiles, the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a more muted tone, while the nylon bottom housing of the T1 provides a fuller and rounder sound.
In terms of functionality, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting the sound and feel differently. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when the key is released. Both switches utilize their housing materials effectively to create unique sound profiles, with the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a combination of thin, pointed sounds and deeper tones, while the T1 provides sharper, clearer sounds and fuller, rounder tones.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a slightly lighter actuation force of 60 grams compared to the T1, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the G Pro 3.0 Black requiring 70 grams and the T1 needing 67 grams of force. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 Black may provide a slightly lighter touch for typing, both switches offer a medium-heavy feel when bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with lighter weights being preferred for longer typing sessions and heavier weights for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in that aspect. When it comes to pressing down on a key, users can expect similar results with both switches. The travel distance plays a significant role in the typing experience, as it determines how far one needs to press down on a key to register a keystroke. In this case, both switches offer a consistent travel distance, providing a satisfying typing feel for users. Overall, whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black or the Durock T1, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of 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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is often described as clacky, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, giving a mellow and moderate tone. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black emphasizing a brighter and more pronounced sound, while the T1 focuses on a deeper and more neutral tone.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance. Conversely, the Durock T1 tactile switch is characterized by its stepped and accented tactile feel, providing a mild bump and moderate tactility. While the G Pro 3.0 Black prioritizes a subtle and polished typing feel, the T1 emphasizes a more defined and structured tactile response.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a sharper and more vibrant sound, coupled with a creamy and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 focuses on a deeper and more mellow sound, paired with a stepped and accented tactile feel. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Durock T1 tactile switch, it ultimately boils down to your preference for typing experience. If you desire a more substantial and pronounced typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a medium-high pitch sound, then the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump, a rain-like sound, and options for a stepped, accented, or polished feel, then the Durock T1 tactile switch could be the better fit for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider what feels best for you when making your decision.
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