Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl stand out as compelling linear options, each offering distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black, known for its premium quality at a budget-friendly price, features a heavier actuation force of 60g and a bottom-out force of 70g, appealing to users who desire a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Its medium-high pitch sound adds a satisfying auditory element, while its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting for a vibrant aesthetic. On the other hand, the WS Pearl integrates innovative ball-bearing technology to reduce friction, resulting in an exceptionally smooth keystroke that many typists find irresistible. Although both switches share a linear profile and a medium-high pitch, they diverge in feel and experience, with the G Pro 3.0 offering a weightier touch and the WS Pearl emphasizing a buttery-smooth operation. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl utilize distinctly different materials for their top housings, which significantly affects the sound profile of each switch. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend that creates a pointed, high-pitched sound with a satisfying clacky tone. This is particularly noticeable when releasing the keys, as the higher-pitched qualities of the top housing resonate clearly. In contrast, the WS Pearl employs a traditional nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder compared to the higher-pitched INK blend. This fundamental difference in the top housing materials results in two distinct auditory experiences when typing, each appealing to different preferences among users.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches utilize materials that facilitate a deeper sound profile. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes POM, which contributes to a muted yet pleasing sound, while the WS Pearl employs nylon, a material that also leads to a full and deep auditory experience. Both nylon and POM are relatively soft plastics, which means they can absorb sound waves to some degree, allowing for a sound quality that is less sharp and more rounded. However, while they share similarities in their muted sound profiles, the G Pro 3.0 Black’s POM bottom housing brings with it a unique texture and feel that differentiates it slightly from the WS Pearl's nylon bottom, impacting the overall typing experience mainly at the bottom-out sound and feel.
Combining the characteristics of the G Pro 3.0 Black's and WS Pearl's housings allows for an intriguing comparison of their overall sound. As the top and bottom housings interact during key presses, the distinct qualities each material brings will influence the auditory feedback users receive. With each switch, the nylon bottom of the WS Pearl and the POM bottom of the G Pro 3.0 Black will provide a fuller, deeper tone, while their top housings will markedly define the release sound. Despite their differing profiles, both switches can ultimately result in satisfying auditory performance due to the synergistic effect of the materials used in their construction. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on user preference for sound characteristics at the top return versus bottom-out stages.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, one can observe a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Black requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch that gives a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the WS Pearl has a notably lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. This lighter force may be more suitable for extended typing sessions, allowing for less finger fatigue, while the heavier G Pro 3.0 Black may appeal to users who prefer a firmer push feel. As a result, if one is looking for a lighter option, the WS Pearl would be the preferred choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Black would be ideal for those who appreciate heavier switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of 0.5 mm highlights a contrast in the feel and responsiveness of these switches. The G Pro 3.0 Black, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a deeper keystroke, offering a more pronounced tactile experience that some prefer for typing or gaming. On the other hand, the WS Pearl, with its shorter travel distance, aligns with the trend of modern switches favored by gamers seeking quicker response times and more immediate actuation. Therefore, if you prioritize quick responsiveness, the WS Pearl would be a suitable choice due to its shorter travel distance, while users who value a deeper feel might opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black.
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 Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00 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 switch offers a medium-high pitch, which can be perceived as both clacky and subdued. This duality means that while it produces a sharp and crisp sound, it's not overwhelmingly loud, making it suitable for different environments. Factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps also influence the auditory experience, which adds versatility to the switch's performance. On the other hand, the WS Pearl also features a medium-high pitched sound signature, suggesting that the auditory qualities will be similar but distinct due to the unique construction of the WS Pearl. However, specific descriptors for the sound of the WS Pearl are unknown, leaving a bit of a gap in comparison.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black presents a tactile experience described as creamy and silky. The smooth operation is bolstered by the heavier actuation force, which can provide a satisfying resistance as users type. This makes for a typing experience that allows for confident keystrokes, reminiscent of gliding across the keys. Given that the WS Pearl utilizes ball-bearings to reduce friction, one can anticipate a remarkably smooth feel as well, likely enhancing the typing experience to an even higher level of fluidity. Although specific descriptors for the feel of the WS Pearl remain unknown, its unique construction hints at a type of smoothness that could rival or surpass that of the G Pro 3.0 Black.
In conclusion, when comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches, both switches provide a medium-high pitched sound, suitable for varied environments but with some unknown aspects in their audio characteristics. In terms of feel, the G Pro switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience under heavier actuation, while the WS Pearl's use of ball-bearings suggests an exceptionally smooth experience. While the aesthetic experiences may differ slightly, both switches have the potential to deliver satisfying and enjoyable typing sessions, making them excellent options for newcomers exploring mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
Thus, to conclude, selecting between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch largely depends on your preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a more substantial, tactile experience and don’t mind a bit of extra resistance, the G Pro 3.0 Black's medium-heavy feel, with its higher actuation force of 60g and bottom-out force of 70g, makes it an excellent choice, particularly for typing tasks that require precision and intentionality, such as programming or writing. This switch also boasts a unique auditory experience, offering a clacky sound that can be quite satisfying. However, if you lean towards a smoother and lighter touch, the WS Pearl is the way to go. With its lower bottom-out force of 58g and innovative ball-bearing design, it provides a surreal typing experience that dramatically reduces friction, making it ideal for those who favor rapid typing, gaming, or simply a quieter sound with a more subdued character. Ultimately, your choice will reflect not only your personal typing style but also the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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