Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch. The G Pro 3.0 Black from Gateron offers a premium typing experience at an affordable price, with its heaviest linear design appealing to those seeking a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow boasts a pronounced tactile bump for a satisfying typing experience, while maintaining a harmonious balance with a medium weight feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, but ultimately the decision between the two comes down to personal taste. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, we see a clear distinction in the sound profiles they offer. The G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing provides a thinner and higher-pitched sound, creating a clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness. Both materials offer a unique sound profile, with the INK blend leaning towards a more pointed sound, while polycarbonate provides a clearer and resonant typing experience, especially enhanced when paired with RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM offers a deep and muted sound profile for a more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and producing a duller yet satisfying sound. While both materials bring different qualities to the table, they both provide a unique sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Aflion Thunder Shadow ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a clacky and pointed sound with its INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing combination, the Thunder Shadow provides a sharper and crisper typing experience with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Regardless of the differences in materials, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Thunder Shadow, which has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Thunder Shadow offers a lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it longer than the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a traditional travel distance, while the Thunder Shadow provides a slightly shorter distance. Gamers may lean towards the Thunder Shadow for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the G Pro 3.0 Black more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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 offers a clacky and sharp sound profile, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is characterized by a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences and environments. However, if you prefer a more subdued sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black may not be the best choice.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a creamy and silky typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation that enhances overall typing comfort. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch provides an invigorating typing sensation, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. Both switches offer a medium weight feel, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a lighter touch and the Thunder Shadow providing a more tactile experience. If you prefer a more subtle and gentle resistance, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be a better option.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing experience, while the Thunder Shadow offers a neutral sound signature and an invigorating feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can cater to different typing styles and environments. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a test keyboard would be the best way to determine which one suits your preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience. If you desire a heavier bottom-out force and a medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be a suitable choice with its creamy and silky feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force with a neutral sound profile and an invigorating tactile feedback, the Thunder Shadow would be more fitting. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize a heavier linear switch or a tactile one with a balanced and immersive typing sensation.
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