Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, particularly when comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Bsun Taichi, enthusiasts have a lot to consider in terms of feel and performance. The G Pro 3.0 Black is renowned for its substantial typing experience, featuring a heavier actuation force of 60g and an even heftier 70g at bottom-out, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more deliberate keypress. Its medium-high pitch provides a distinctive auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying, while the frosted light diffuser enhances RGB effects, making it a visually appealing option. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch is designed for smoothness and stability, thanks to its long-pole stem and extended springs, producing a unique high-pitched bottom-out sound that adds a different auditory character to each keystroke. It's categorized as both polished and clacky, making it a great option for those who favor a cleaner, yet still engaging, sound profile. Ultimately, while both switches provide distinct tactile experiences, they cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
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
Partial box
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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Bsun Taichi showcase notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend, which is designed to produce a thinner, higher-pitched sound described as clacky. This sound is achievable due to the unique characteristics of the INK blend, which allows for a pointed acoustic profile without becoming overly sharp. Conversely, the Bsun Taichi employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigid structure that provides a sharper and crisper auditory experience. While both switches share the intent of achieving a higher-pitched sound, the G Pro 3.0's sound leans towards satisfaction and nuance, while the Taichi's polycarbonate offers clarity and brightness. If one were to use these switches side by side, they would likely find that while both can deliver an engaging sound experience, the nuances between their constructions lead to distinct aural differences.
Examining the bottom housings of the two switches reveals further contrasts in their sound character. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing, recognized for producing a deep, muted sound profile that adds a unique richness to the typing experience. This is in stark contrast to the Bsun Taichi, which employs a nylon bottom housing known for its softer, fuller sound. The nylon material absorbs sound to create a more rounded, subdued auditory experience. The combined impact of these disparate materials means that while the G Pro 3.0 Black may deliver a more pronounced and resonant bottom-out sound due to the POM, the Taichi would offer a more cushioned effect with a gentle auditory delivery. Therefore, users of each switch will encounter different tactile and auditory experiences rooted in the materials used for the bottom housings.
Ultimately, the interplay between the top and bottom housing materials in both the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Bsun Taichi highlights how each component contributes to the overall switch experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black's mix of sharpness in its INK blend top housing and depth in its POM bottom housing creates a balance of pronounced sound upon release and a fuller tone upon bottoming out. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom work together to maintain a consistent clarity and roundness across its sound profile. Notably, despite their differences, users could achieve desired results in sound dynamics and typing feel by considering how each housing contributes actively to both phases of the keystroke. Hence, while these switches might reflect contrasting material qualities, thoughtful selection can lead to satisfying typing experiences for enthusiasts of various preferences.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch features a notably heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Bsun Taichi linear switch, which has a much lighter actuation force of just 40 grams. This difference means that typists who prefer a lighter switch may find the Taichi more comfortable for extended use, while those who favor a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Black switch. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a defined bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating a firmer resistance at the end of a keystroke. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Taichi is unknown, making it difficult to assess its overall resistance when fully pressed down. Consequently, users seeking a consistent tactile feedback throughout their typing experience might find the Gateron switch more reliable due to its known pressure requirements. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Black is the heavier option, while the Taichi is the lighter choice, potentially catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Taichi switch is shorter at 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more traditional and deeper feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press. Conversely, the Taichi's shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuations, making it a potentially better choice for gamers seeking fast response times. Ultimately, those who favor a more responsive experience may opt for the Taichi switch, while those who appreciate a deeper, more tactile feel might lean toward the G Pro 3.0 Black.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 Bsun Taichi linear switches deliver a clacky auditory experience. This sound profile is characterized by a sharp, snappy tone that is crisp, bright, and percussive, making both switches appealing for users who enjoy a more vibrant feedback during typing. However, the overall auditory experience can still vary based on the type of keyboard configuration and keycaps used, so while both switches are designed to produce similar sound qualities, personal setups may influence the exact sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a creamy and silky typing experience, along with a subtle resistance that enhances tactile feedback without being overpowering. This results in a smooth, effortless keystroke that glides under the fingers. In contrast, the Taichi switch is described as polished, indicating a refined, smooth finish that minimizes friction for an equally satisfying typing experience. While they each emphasize smoothness, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a slightly richer texture with its creamy and subtle characteristics, while the Taichi focuses more on a sleek and stable key travel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Bsun Taichi linear switches provide a satisfying combination of clacky sound and smooth feel that make them attractive options for newcomers to mechanical keyboards. While their auditory profiles are similar, the G Pro 3.0 Black's creamy texture adds a unique element to its typing experience, which differentiates it from the polished feel of the Taichi. Ultimately, both switches will yield enjoyable typing results, making them suitable contenders based on personal preferences for either sound or feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, consider your typing habits and preferences. If you favor a weightier tactile feedback and appreciate a more robust typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black is an excellent choice. Its medium-heavy force, combined with a creamy and silky feel, offers a substantial yet smooth typing experience that many typists find satisfying. The sound produced by this switch is clacky, which adds a lively auditory element that can enhance your typing enjoyment, especially in a personal space. On the other hand, if you're looking for a light, playful touch that still delivers smoothness and stability, the Taichi switch may be more suitable. While its exact bottom-out force is unknown, its design features—such as the long-pole stem and extended springs—contribute to a polished typing feel and an enchanting high-pitched sound. This switch might be particularly appealing if you enjoy a smoother transition between keystrokes and seek an engaging auditory experience. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing style, whether you prefer the textured feedback of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the ethereal experience offered by the Bsun Taichi.
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