Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gazzew U4T stand out as popular choices with unique characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, is praised for its heavy actuation that appeals to those who prefer a substantial typing feel. It boasts a balanced medium-heavy touch with a medium-high pitch auditory experience, perfect for those seeking a more pronounced typing feedback. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T, a tactile switch, offers a harmonious blend of thockiness and tactile feedback, providing a satisfying auditory and tactile experience with every key press. While the G Pro 3.0 Black excels in delivering a clacky and creamy typing experience, the U4T shines with its bassy thock sound profile and sharp tactility. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gazzew U4T both offer unique sound profiles, with the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing providing a thin and clacky sound, while the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In terms of bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing creates a pleasing and deep sound profile, while the U4T's Gazzew blend bottom housing offers a similarly rich and deep sound profile. Despite these differences in material composition, both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience for users.
One key difference between the two switches is the type of sound each housing material produces. The G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing creates a higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the U4T's Gazzew blend top housing delivers a deeper and richer sound profile. This distinction in sound profile can be attributed to the properties of the materials used in each housing. Additionally, while the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing offers a unique and muted sound profile, the U4T's Gazzew blend bottom housing similarly provides a rich and deep sound experience.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gazzew U4T offer distinct housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. While the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing create a more thin and muted sound profile, the U4T's Gazzew blend top and bottom housing provide a rich and deep sound experience. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches deliver satisfying auditory feedback for users, making them both popular choices in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Black is slightly heavier. The G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, whereas the U4T has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a substantial typing experience. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the U4T for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the heavier actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Black for a more pronounced and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing them, it can be said that they provide a similar typing experience as they both offer the same amount of travel distance. This means that users can expect a consistent feel and response when typing on either of these switches. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with their equal travel distances.
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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is characterized by a clacky profile, offering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a bassy thocky sound, delivering a deeper and richer auditory experience with a satisfying thud-like resonance. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles catering to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black being more clacky and the U4T being more bassy and thocky.
Moving on to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is praised for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance. In comparison, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, providing a high intensity tactile bump with each keypress. While the G Pro 3.0 Black focuses on delivering a smooth and effortless typing experience, the U4T emphasizes a distinct tactile feedback for keystroke satisfaction.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a creamy, silky typing feel, appealing to those seeking a medium-heavy linear switch experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T stands out with its bassy thocky sound and sharp tactile feedback, catering to users who crave a more pronounced tactile response. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities for a personalized typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a more substantive typing experience with a medium-heavy feel, balanced actuation, and a clacky sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, paired with a bassy sound profile and a sharp tactile feedback, then the U4T could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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