Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Gazzew U4Tx RGB present distinct options that cater to different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black, with its hefty 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, is a linear switch designed for users who enjoy a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile resistance, making it an excellent choice for fast typists and gamers who seek rapid response times. Its ability to amplify RGB lighting through a frosted light diffuser adds a visual flair that many enthusiasts appreciate. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying 'thock' sound upon bottoming out, complemented by a sharp tactile bump that enhances feedback while typing. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more nuanced and engaging typing experience, as it strikes a balance between quiet operation and an audible response that can improve typing accuracy. Both switches offer their own unique appeal—whether you're drawn to the smooth linear feel of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the tactile satisfaction of the U4Tx RGB. 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
3.60 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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches present both contrasting and complementary attributes, influencing their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black employs a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which is noted for producing a pointed, high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB utilizes what is commonly referred to as "boba plastic" in its top housing, which delivers a softer and more subdued sound profile. This divergence in top housing materials results in a different auditory experience when releasing the key, where the Gateron produces a crisper sound, while the Gazzew caters to those favoring a deeper, more resonant audio quality.
Looking at the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates POM, a material that is celebrated for creating a muted yet pleasingly deep sound. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB also utilizes the "boba plastic" blend for its bottom housing, matching the softness of its top housing and thereby reinforcing its ability to generate a rich sound profile. This similarity allows the U4Tx RGB to maintain a consistent auditory experience throughout both the keypress and the release phases. The POM material in the G Pro 3.0 Black, however, adds a unique texture and tone to the bottom-out sound that differs from the Gazzew's softer approach.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in both switches results in a unique interplay of sound characteristics. In the case of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, the pointed sound of the INK blend top housing balances with the deeper tones of the POM bottom housing for a distinctive auditory experience. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB harmonizes both its top and bottom housing with the same "boba plastic," yielding a consistent sound throughout the key actuation cycle. While they diverge in individual tonality due to their material choices, both switches can deliver satisfying results depending on user preference for sonic texture, confirming that even varying materials can lead to appealing experiences when combined effectively.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we see that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a specified actuation force of 60 grams, while the actuation force for the U4Tx RGB is not provided. However, its bottom out force registers at 65 grams, which is slightly lower than the G Pro 3.0 Black's bottom out force of 70 grams. This indicates that while the G Pro 3.0 Black requires a bit more force to bottom out and actuate at a heavier setting, the U4Tx RGB is generally lighter during the bottoming out phase. Therefore, users looking for an easier typing experience for extended periods might prefer the U4Tx RGB, despite its lack of specified actuation force. In contrast, typists who appreciate a more substantial push feel may favor the G Pro 3.0 Black. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a heavier typing experience, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB provides a lighter option with a slightly lower bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Black the longer option, offering a more traditional feel that some users may prefer for typing or gaming, as it provides a greater depth with each keystroke. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB's shorter travel distance allows for faster response times, catering to gamers who prioritize quick actuation. Both switches deliver distinct experiences: the G Pro 3.0 Black might appeal to those who enjoy a more robust keystroke, while the U4Tx RGB is suited for users seeking a snappier performance. Ultimately, the choice between these two will depend on individual preferences for either depth or responsiveness.
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 U4Tx RGB 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
When comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch, the G Pro 3.0 Black tends to deliver a sound profile that falls into two distinct categories: clacky and subdued. The sharp and snappy nature of the clacky sound makes the experience bright and percussive, while the subdued aspect offers a more muted auditory sensation, providing a balance that may appeal to users in shared environments. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is characterized by a deep "thock" sound when bottoming out, which resonates luxuriously, complemented by a quieter topping out. The combination of these sound profiles suggests that the U4Tx RGB may provide a more refined auditory experience overall, though the G Pro 3.0 can still be enjoyable depending on personal preference and typing environment.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offers a notably creamy and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation that invites effortless keystrokes. This switch presents a balanced medium-heavy feel with a tactile nuance that allows for an engaging typing experience without overwhelming resistance. Meanwhile, the touch characteristics of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB are highlighted by its sharp tactile bump, delivering a satisfying tactile feedback that contrasts well with its acoustic traits. This tactile nature blends robustly with the deep "thock," creating a luxurious typing experience that some users may find more pleasurable when compared to the smoothness of the G Pro 3.0 Black.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches cater to different preferences with their sound and feel profiles, they both can provide satisfying typing experiences in their own right. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out with its versatile sound and silky feel, making it suitable for users who prefer a more robust action, while the U4Tx RGB enchants with its tactile sharpness and deep acoustic richness, appealing to those who appreciate tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal taste and the specific typing experience one seeks to achieve.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you're seeking. If you prefer a heavier switch with a smooth, creamy feel and enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Black is an excellent option. Its crisp clackiness and slightly higher bottom-out force can provide a satisfying tactile sensation, making it ideal for those who relish the feeling of substantial keystrokes while gaming or typing. However, if your priority lies in a luxurious typing experience characterized by a refined sound profile with a discernible tactile bump, the U4Tx RGB switch would be the better choice. With its silken feel and deep “thock” sound, it caters to users who wish to maintain a quieter environment without sacrificing feedback. In essence, if you value smoothness and a quieter operation, the U4Tx RGB is likely to enhance your overall typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Black is perfect for those who crave a more robust, engaging sound and feel.