Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Dareu Holly both stand out as popular options within the tactile switch category. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, part of Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series, offers a gentle and subtle tactile sensation with a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, creating an immersive visual experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch features a medium 50g actuation force and a unique sound signature that blends chirpy and clacky elements, appealing to users seeking a balanced and distinctive typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown is praised for its easy-to-press and mild feel, the Holly is known for its chirpy and clacky characteristics. 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
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Dareu Holly feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard. On the other hand, while both switches have nylon bottom housings, nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings.
Despite having different top and bottom housing materials, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Holly offer unique sound profiles due to the characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon. The top housing of a switch plays a crucial role in the sound when letting go of a key, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of both switches contributes to a clearer and resonant sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and deeper tone. This combination of materials allows for a versatile typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
In terms of overall construction, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Dareu Holly showcase the importance of housing materials in creating different typing experiences. While both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top housing for a sharper sound profile, they diverge in the bottom housing material with the G Pro 3.0 Brown using nylon for a deeper sound and the Holly following suit. Regardless of these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience that can cater to different preferences based on sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, we see some differences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the Holly has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, although the bottom out force is unknown. The G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Holly, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial push feel. However, for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Holly might be a better option. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on the user's preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown leaning towards a heavier typing experience and the Holly providing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a similar feel and distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent tactile response for users looking for a satisfying typing experience. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches makes them both viable options for those in search of a tactile switch with a moderate distance for keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown 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 Brown for $2.77.
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch is unique in its sound signature, combining chirpy and clacky elements to create a balanced and distinctive typing sound. Depending on personal preference, users may find the G Pro 3.0 Brown to be more subtle and pleasant, while the Holly switch may appeal to those looking for a more standout auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The mild feel of these switches provides a comfortable and low-impact typing experience. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Dareu Holly switch is unknown at this time. Considering the medium actuation force of 50g, it could potentially offer a comfortable typing experience similar to the G Pro 3.0 Brown.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Dareu Holly switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a subtle tactile sensation and a medium-high pitch sound, ideal for those seeking a gentler typing experience. Meanwhile, the Dareu Holly switch stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound signature, potentially appealing to users looking for a more distinctive typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium bottom out force, a subtle tactile sensation, and a medium-high pitch for auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, along with a medium 50g actuation force, the Dareu Holly switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to how you prioritize tactile feel, sound, and actuation force in your typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style for an enhanced keyboard experience.
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