Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, the decision boils down to preference and typing style. The G Pro Brown offers a gentle tactile bump that enhances typing accuracy without being overwhelming, making it a solid choice for those who appreciate a subtle tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Jacaranda linear switch boasts a smooth keystroke and a unique bouncy sensation, ideal for users looking for a more fluid typing experience. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the PH Studio Jacaranda both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through effectively. This material choice ensures a clear and resonant sound profile for both switches, making them ideal for those who prioritize sound quality during typing.
In terms of their bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Jacaranda utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material. Nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics, as it absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. This choice of material for the bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience by providing a softer impact and enhancing the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. Despite having different top housings, the switches share similar qualities in their bottom housings which contribute to a consistent typing experience.
While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the PH Studio Jacaranda share similarities in their top and bottom housing material choices, they provide a unique typing experience due to the split qualities each housing material brings. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction ensures that users can enjoy a well-rounded typing experience that balances sharpness, resonance, and sound absorption, making both switches a preferred choice for those seeking a tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch's actuation force of 39 grams, making the Jacaranda the lighter option. When it comes to the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 63 grams of force while the Jacaranda only needs 45 grams, again making the Jacaranda the lighter option. The G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation and bottom out forces, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Jacaranda offers a lighter typing experience, perfect for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue might be a concern. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Jacaranda switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Jacaranda switch with its shorter travel distance, which allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more robust and satisfying keystroke may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding key feel and responsiveness.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 Brown tactile switch is known for its medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to typing sessions. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is described as producing a crisp and clacky sound with a sharp and snappy feedback. Both switches offer distinctive sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown providing a more medium-high pitch and the Jacaranda with a clacky sound signature.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle bump that won't overpower the typing flow. These switches provide a mild and approachable typing experience, enhancing the overall typing feel with minimal resistance. In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is described as offering a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Jacaranda's extended 22mm spring further contributes to a uniquely bouncy sensation during each keystroke, elevating the typing experience to new heights.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the G Pro Brown provides a medium-high pitch and easy-to-press nature with a gentle bump for tactile feedback, the Jacaranda stands out with its clacky sound signature, silky smooth typing experience, and bouncy sensation from the extended spring. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering which switch to choose between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force with a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, along with 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 lighter bottom-out force with a sound signature leaning towards the clacky side and a uniquely bouncy sensation due to the extended 22mm spring, the Jacaranda may be more suitable for your typing needs. Consider how these characteristics align with your typing preferences to make an informed decision on which switch is the best fit for you.
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