Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, preferences often hinge on whether one favors a linear or tactile response. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, is a remarkable choice for those who seek a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience. Known for its substantial feel and 60g actuation force, this switch provides a medium-heavy resistance that many enthusiasts cherish, along with a medium-high pitch sound that adds a pleasing auditory layer to typing. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch offers a tactile experience, engaging typists with a subtle to moderate tactile bump that enhances feedback without compromising on smoothness. While both switches represent Gateron's commitment to quality, the G Pro 3.0 Black excels in delivering a fluid and quiet typing experience, making it ideal for gamers and those who favor a sleek design. Conversely, the Weightlessness caters to users seeking a tactile engagement that can improve typing accuracy. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Weightlessness differ in their choice of housing materials, which significantly influences their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend for the top housing, which is noted for its high-pitched, clacky sound. This sound characteristic stands in contrast to the Weightlessness, which utilizes a nylon top housing that generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. Therefore, users may find that typing on the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more vibrant and lively sound, while the Weightlessness provides a muted yet rich auditory experience.
In terms of bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a POM material, known for creating a deeper and more muted sound, while the Weightlessness opts for a nylon bottom housing that elicits a similarly fuller sound profile. Although both switches use different materials for their bottom housings, they share a tendency toward a more subdued auditory feedback. This suggests that while each switch offers a distinct sound signature due to their unique top housings, the use of nylon in both cases for the bottom housing may lead to similar results in terms of deeper sound and tactile feedback when bottoming out.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in both the G Pro 3.0 Black and Weightlessness shapes the overall typing experience, with each switch blending the characteristics of their unique materials. The impact of the top housing is more pronounced in the release sound, while the qualities of the bottom housing primarily affect the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite their differences, the G Pro 3.0 Black and Weightlessness share a commonality in that their different housing compositions may result in comparable auditory experiences, especially in terms of the deeper sound associated with their nylon bottom housings, illustrating how housing materials can ultimately influence the overall performance and satisfaction of mechanical switches.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation force, while the bottom out force presents an unknown metric for the Weightlessness switch. The G Pro 3.0 Black requires a moderate actuation force of 60 grams, which makes it suitable for users who appreciate a firmer typing experience. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch offers a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to those who prefer ease of typing, especially for extended sessions. The bottom out force for the G Pro 3.0 Black is 70 grams, indicating a clearer tactile feedback when the switch is fully pressed down. However, the Weightlessness switch has an unspecified bottom out force. This uncertainty means that while users may experience similar actuation feedback at lower pressures with the Weightlessness switch, the overall experience of bottoming out might differ. Therefore, if one seeks a lighter touch when typing, the Weightlessness is the better option, while the G Pro 3.0 Black caters to those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, we find that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Weightlessness switch measures shorter at 3.4 mm. This difference reflects the preferences of different types of users; gamers may gravitate towards the shorter travel distance of the Weightlessness for quicker key response times, while those who favor a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes might appreciate the G Pro 3.0 Black’s longer travel distance. Thus, if you value responsiveness and a quicker feel when typing or gaming, the Gateron Weightlessness would be the better option. Conversely, for a more substantial tactile experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is the switch to choose.
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 Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 considering the sound profiles, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch stands out with its clacky auditory feedback, producing a sharp, crisp, and bright sound upon keypresses. This characteristic can add a lively element to your typing experience, which many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the specific sound profile of the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch remains unknown. However, it is noted that its balanced sound complements its tactile nature, suggesting that it may produce a more muted or subtle noise compared to the clackiness of the G Pro 3.0 Black.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a luxurious typing experience described as both creamy and silky, characterized by smooth gliding movements with minimal resistance. This allows for a pleasurable typing rhythm, ideal for extended use. The tactile aspect of the G Pro 3.0 is less prominent; however, its medium-heavy actuation force of 60g provides a substantial feel that is satisfying to many typists. Conversely, the Weightlessness switch offers a subtle to moderate tactile feedback, though specific descriptors are not detailed. This may suggest a gentler typing experience, potentially providing distinct yet less pronounced tactile cues than the G Pro 3.0.
In summary, both switches offer unique qualities suited to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black delivers a more dynamic auditory experience with its clacky sound and creamy, silky feel, making it appealing to those who enjoy pronounced feedback during typing. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch may cater to users desiring a more nuanced tactile sensation along with a balanced sound profile, though its sound characteristics are less defined. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a more assertive auditory feedback and a smoother typing experience or prefer a subtle tactile sensation with potentially quieter operation.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch should be guided by your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a more defined and substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation and bottom-out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black is likely your best bet. It offers a creamy and silky feel that enhances typing comfort, making it ideal for prolonged use, whether for gaming or writing. The clacky sound profile adds a lively auditory feedback, which can be satisfying, especially if you enjoy the sound of your keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile response that supports quieter environments, the Weightlessness switch may cater to your needs better. With its moderate tactile feedback and emphasis on a balanced sound profile, it provides a refined typing sensation without overwhelming auditory cues. Ultimately, consider your typing style and environment—whether you seek a more pronounced interaction with your keyboard or a nuanced and quieter experience—to decide which switch aligns better with your preferences.
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