Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately boils down to personal preference and typing style. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavier 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, appealing to users who desire a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Type A offers a medium-weight option with a sound signature leaning towards deeper tones, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Type A switches provide distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and higher-pitched sound, while the Type A's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black uses a POM material that results in a deeper and relatively muted sound, whereas the Type A's nylon bottom housing contributes to a rounder and duller sound. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more sharp and clacky sound profile compared to the Type A's smoother and fuller sound.
While the G Pro 3.0 Black's top housing brings a more high-pitched and clacky sound, the Type A's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches play a role in creating the overall sound profile, with the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black emphasizing deeper tones and the nylon bottom housing of the Type A contributing to a rounder sound. The differences in housing materials result in unique auditory experiences for users of each switch, with the G Pro 3.0 Black providing a sharper sound and the Type A delivering a more well-rounded tone.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Type A switches offer satisfying typing experiences. While the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing create a distinct sound profile, the Type A's nylon housing material produces a different, yet equally enjoyable sound. Whether you prefer a sharper, clacky sound or a deeper, fuller tone, both switches offer quality construction and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of 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 Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Black is heavier in both aspects. The G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Type A offers a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Type A would be the better choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Black is more suited for users who prefer a heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the user's preference for the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, they offer a similar experience in terms of keypress feel and feedback due to their identical travel distances. Users can expect consistent results and a familiar typing experience whether they choose the G Pro 3.0 Black or the Type A switch. Overall, both switches provide a smooth and linear typing experience with the same travel distance, offering a reliable choice for those seeking a consistent 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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound quality is complemented by its creamy and silky feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch has a more neutral sound profile, leaning towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum, and it offers a dampened sound when pressed. While the feel of the Type A switch is not described in the available information, the G Pro 3.0 Black is known for its medium-heavy feel with a balanced 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, providing a subtle resistance that still maintains a light typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a clacky sound and a creamy, silky typing experience, appealing to those who seek a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Type A switch offers a more subdued sound profile and likely provides a different tactile feel, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound signature, the Type A could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer a premium typing experience at different weight and sound levels, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
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