Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Type L. The G Pro 3.0 Black is ideal for those seeking a heavier linear switch, with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force providing a satisfying typing experience. The medium-high pitch auditory feedback and vibrant RGB lighting effects make it a popular choice for gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the Type L offers a lighter touch, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and produces a deeper sound signature. This makes it a great option for those looking for a more subtle and easy-to-press 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
38g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Type L both have unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing is known for producing a pointed and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the Type L's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to the nylon material's ability to absorb more sound. While the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing produces a pleasing and unique deeper sound, the Type L's nylon bottom housing enhances the overall sound profile with its softer plastic composition.
Although the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Type L have different top and bottom housing materials, they both offer satisfying sound profiles with distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Black excels in producing a thin, higher-pitched clacky sound with its proprietary INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing adding to the unique sound experience. On the other hand, the Type L's nylon top housing and bottom housing contribute to a deeper and rounder sound profile, offering a different typing experience for users who prefer a fuller sound with a softer feel. Despite these differences, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Type L ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a clacky and relatively high-pitched sound with its unique housing materials, the Type L provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon housing. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, making them suitable options for users seeking a specific sound profile and typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, clacky sound or a softer, fuller sound, both switches offer quality performance with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that there is a notable difference in the actuation and bottom out forces between the two. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a higher bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Type L has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. This indicates that the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Type L offers a lighter keystroke for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with some favoring the lighter feel of the Type L and others opting for the heavier actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Black for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. As a result, you can expect similar typing and gaming experiences with both switches in terms of the distance the keys travel when pressed. This makes them suitable choices for those who prefer a consistent feel and performance across different keyboards.
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 L 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch provides a clacky typing experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound profile is crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a tactile element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a more neutral sound signature, leaning towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. The Type L switch produces a more subdued sound, making it a suitable option for various environments. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for a more pronounced or subtle auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offers a creamy and silky typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides a smooth and buttery feel, making keystrokes effortless and enjoyable. The G Pro 3.0 Black switch also has a subtle resistance, ensuring a light typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press. This means that the Type L switch requires minimal force to activate, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the choice between them depending on whether you prefer a smoother or lighter actuation.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black switch provides a clacky sound and a creamy, silky typing experience, appealing to those looking for a more substantial and smooth feel. On the other hand, the Type L switch offers a more neutral sound and a feathery, easy-to-press feel, catering to users who prefer a lighter and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, both switches deliver high-quality performance at different ends of the typing spectrum, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing feel based on their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preference for key feel and sound profile. If you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clacky sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a lower bottom out force and a more subdued sound, the Type L would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall feel and sound you desire from your mechanical keyboard switch.
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