Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ both stand out as compelling linear options, each offering a unique typing experience to suit different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black is celebrated for its heavier actuation force of 60g, which provides a more substantial feel while typing; this medium-heavy resistance appeals to users who enjoy a tactile engagement with their keys, along with its vibrant RGB lighting effects enhanced by a frosted light diffuser. On the other hand, the WS POM+ excels in delivering a deep, resonant “thock,” creating a satisfying auditory experience alongside its buttery-smooth keystrokes, ideal for those who prioritize acoustics in their typing. While the G Pro 3.0 offers a balanced typing experience with a medium-high pitch sound, the WS POM+ emphasizes smoothness and a rich auditory feedback. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ both utilize unique housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Black employs a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which is known for its pointed, high-pitched sound. This results in a sound that many users describe as clacky, adding an engaging auditory element to the typing experience. In contrast, the WS POM+ features a POM top housing that produces a deeper, more muted sound. This distinct difference underscores the varying auditory characteristics that come from the choice of housing materials, with the G Pro emphasizing a sharper auditory feedback compared to the softness of the WS POM+.
When examining the bottom housings, both the G Pro 3.0 Black and WS POM+ utilize POM for their designs. This choice brings a similar sound profile to both switches, marked by a deeper and more muted resonance. The consistency in bottom housing material implies that users can expect a pleasing and unique auditory response with both switches when bottoming out. The impact of the bottom housing can be felt most significantly during the actuation, suggesting that while the sound upon releasing the key may differ, the sensation during the keystroke is comparable due to their shared POM composition.
Ultimately, the interaction between the top and bottom housings in both switches produces a unique blend of auditory and tactile feedback. The G Pro 3.0 Black’s INK blend top housing provides a high-pitched sound when keys are released, while the WS POM+ relies on its POM material for a more subdued auditory response. However, since the bottom housing in both models is made of POM, the bottom-out sound will be similar, contributing a shared experience in that regard. Therefore, while the overall typing experience can vary between the two switches due to their differing top housing materials, both can deliver unique yet satisfying sounds and tactile feedback through their combined housing designs.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to distinct user preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that may be favored by users who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the WS POM+ features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where reduced finger fatigue is desired. Overall, those who prefer a lighter touch will appreciate the WS POM+, while the G Pro 3.0 Black will appeal to users looking for a firmer keystroke feel. With these differences, the user experience will significantly vary, making the choice dependent on personal preference for actuation and typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, we see a distinct difference between the two. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standard, providing a more substantial keypress that some users may find satisfying. In contrast, the WS POM+ has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it more suitable for users who prefer quicker response times, particularly beneficial for gamers. This shorter distance allows for faster actuation and potentially improved performance in fast-paced scenarios. Ultimately, if you favor a deeper, more tactile experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the ideal choice, while the WS POM+ would be better for those seeking a snappier and more responsive feel.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 presents a medium-high pitch auditory experience that can range from clacky to subdued based on user preferences or surrounding factors like the keyboard frame and keycaps. This variability in sound allows for a snappy, crisp typing experience, but it may not be ideal for those seeking a fully muted atmosphere. On the other hand, the WS POM+ switch is known for a deep "thock" sound signature, which tends to be more resonant and satisfying. This contrast means that while both switches provide unique auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Black might cater more to those who enjoy a sharper sound, whereas the WS POM+ is likely more appealing to users who desire fulfilling thock sounds with a heavier thump.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black excels with its creamy and silky typing textures. This means that users can expect a smooth, buttery experience with every keystroke, making it a pleasurable option for extended typing sessions. The gentle resistance provided by the switch's medium-heavy actuation forces also lends a level of control, allowing for deliberate typing without overwhelming fatigue. Unfortunately, information about the feel of the WS POM+ switch is currently unknown, making direct comparisons difficult. However, its reputation for providing a premium typing experience suggests it could also deliver a similarly satisfying tactile feedback.
In summary, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is celebrated for its medium-heavy actuation and versatile sound profile, appealing particularly to those who enjoy a diverse auditory experience, the WS POM+ switch offers a sought-after deep sound signature that could enhance the overall typing experience. One switch favors a snappier, clackier sound, while the other provides a more resonant thock, with the G Pro 3.0 Black excelling in creamy and silky feel, leaving room for the WS POM+ to potentially match the quality in a yet undisclosed tactile manner. Users seeking a combination of sound and feel will find that both options provide distinct yet compelling qualities in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, actuation force, and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch that provides a more substantial typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black is an excellent choice. It features a 60g actuation force and a 70g bottom-out force, making it suitable for users who enjoy a firmer key press and appreciate the added auditory feedback of its clacky yet subdued sound. This switch is ideal if you’re in a quieter environment but still want a bit of auditory engagement in your typing.
On the other hand, if you seek a lighter feel and a smoother typing experience, the WS POM+ switch with its 55g bottom-out force may be more appealing. This switch is designed for those who desire a buttery-smooth keystroke and a deep "thock" sound, suitable for longer typing sessions without fatigue. The combination of its lighter actuation force and satisfying auditory feedback makes it a strong option for both casual users and gamers alike, particularly in shared spaces where a discreet sound profile is preferred. Ultimately, consider your typing habits and the environment you’ll be using the keyboard in to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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