Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch stand out as popular choices. The G Pro 3.0 Black is praised for its heavy actuation and bottom-out force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Additionally, its medium-high pitch auditory feedback and vibrant RGB lighting effects make it a visually and audibly engaging option. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch offers a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. Its subdued color scheme adds to its appeal, making it a neutral and buttery option for users. 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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Jwick Taro both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out with its proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a satisfying thin and clacky sound. In contrast, the Taro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both materials offer a unique auditory experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend delivers a slightly different sound compared to the Taro's polycarbonate for users seeking a particular sound profile.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing that produces a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Taro incorporates a nylon bottom housing that elicits a fuller and rounder sound. The use of different materials for the bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience, with POM offering a unique sound compared to nylon. Users can choose between the two based on their preference for a deeper or fuller sound when typing on these switches.
Although the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Jwick Taro feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both offer a unique typing experience. The housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound profile of the switches, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether users prefer the clacky sound of the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend or the sharper sound of the Taro's polycarbonate, both switches provide a distinctive typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of around 67-70 grams, making them both medium-heavy switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Taro switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial and tactile typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Taro switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black switch. A 0.3 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Taro switch due to its shorter travel distance, providing quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more profound and deliberate keystroke may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding key feel and response time.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
When comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, we see a distinct difference in their characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a clacky and sharp sound profile, creating a crisp and percussive auditory experience. In contrast, the Taro switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, with a moderate level of sound that is suitable for various environments. If you prefer a more pronounced and lively sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the preferred choice.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, we observe another contrast between the two. The G Pro 3.0 Black is noted for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Taro switch is described as providing a buttery feel, emphasizing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. If you enjoy a smoother and more fluid keystroke, the Taro switch would be a favorable option.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky sound and a creamy typing experience, the Taro switch offers a neutral sound and a buttery feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel. However, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, your choice should be based on your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a more substantial and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy feel, then the G Pro 3.0 Black would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy and buttery typing experience with a medium level of tactility, then the Taro switch would be more suited to your preferences. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to make an informed decision that aligns with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to whether you prefer a heavier linear switch or a tactile switch with a softer typing feel.
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