Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear designs can significantly influence your typing experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch stands out with its subtle tactile bump, offering a delightful feedback that enhances the typing experience without becoming overwhelming. This switch is not only economical but also enhances RGB lighting, creating a vibrant visual appeal. Ideal for typists who appreciate a bit of texture in their key presses, the G Pro Brown provides a satisfying auditory feedback with its medium-high pitch sound. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin switch presents a different allure, offering an ultra-smooth linear action that prioritizes speed and fluidity over tactile engagement. With its premium acoustics and an emphasis on smoothness, the Keylin is a great pick for gamers and those who prefer a quieter, uninterrupted typing experience. Each switch caters to different preferences, whether you seek a tactile sensation or a seamless glide. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Keygeek Keylin exhibit distinct characteristics that influence their acoustic profiles and tactile experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucency, which conjures a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This material's stiffer nature contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it particularly advantageous for users who want to enhance their RGB lighting effects, as polycarbonate allows for better light diffusion. In contrast, the Keylin's top housing is made from nylon, a softer plastic that absorbs sound better, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrasting material selection means that while the G Pro 3.0 produces a crisper sound on key release, the Keylin's sound will be warmer and rounder, providing a very different auditory experience.
Both switches feature nylon in their bottom housings, which ties them together in terms of sound profile. Nylon's softer properties contribute to a deeper and fuller sound for both switches as the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound. This commonality suggests that the overall output of both switches will share some similarities in terms of depth, due to the nylon's sound absorption properties. However, the impact of the top housing remains crucial in distinguishing the overall sound experience across the two models, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown leaning towards a more noticeable sound clarity while the Keylin emphasizes warmth in its acoustic performance.
In essence, the differences in top housing materials between the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Keygeek Keylin lead to distinct sound profiles—one sharper and clearer, the other deeper and rounder. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, providing a common link that enhances their low-end sound quality. Consequently, while the tactile feedback may be influenced by the individual housing materials, users can expect a blend of crispness from the G Pro 3.0 alongside the warm depth of the Keylin due to the shared characteristics of the nylon used in both bottom housings. Thus, a user looking for a balanced experience may appreciate both switches for different reasons, finding unique auditory benefits in each while enjoying the rounded quality that nylon bestows.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch with the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Brown requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Keylin switch offers a lighter typing experience, with an actuation force of just 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This difference means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a more substantial typing feel, appealing to users who prefer a heavier switch for a more tactile experience, while the Keylin is ideal for those seeking a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, while the G Pro 3.0 is better suited for users who appreciate a firmer push, the Keylin caters to those who prioritize a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Keygeek Keylin linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference highlights a key distinction between the two switches; the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a traditional feel with its longer travel distance, which some users might appreciate for its depth and feedback. In contrast, the Keylin’s 3.6 mm travel caters to those who prefer a quicker actuation, making it a potential favorite among gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, if users prioritize a fuller typing experience, they may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown, while those who favor a more streamlined and responsive feel might lean towards the Keylin switch.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is characterized by a medium-high pitch that produces a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. This sound is neither overwhelming nor whisper-quiet, making it appealing for those who enjoy some level of acoustic engagement with their keystrokes without it being a distraction. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is noted for its rich acoustics, suggesting it offers a more resonant and full-bodied sound during use, although its lack of a tactile bump creates a different auditory experience compared to the G Pro Browns. It's important to remember that the overall sound experience will be influenced by other factors, including the keyboard’s materials and design, as well as the choice of keycaps.
When discussing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is celebrated for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance that minimizes the force required for activation. This lightweight actuation contributes to a comfortable typing experience, particularly during long sessions, effectively reducing finger fatigue. Additionally, the switch provides a mild tactile feedback, introducing a gentle bump in the keystroke that is accessible to a wide range of users due to its non-intrusive nature. On the other hand, information regarding the feel of the Keylin switch is unspecified, leaving it unclear how it compares in terms of tactile response or actuation force. However, as a linear switch, it can be inferred that it would not provide tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch offers a well-balanced combination of sound and feel, providing a pleasant auditory experience alongside a comfortable typing sensation. Its tactile characteristics make it a versatile choice for both typing and gaming. The Keylin linear switch promises a premium typing experience with its smoothness and rich acoustics, but without detailed descriptions of its tactile feedback, it remains an unknown factor in the comparison. Ultimately, while both switches cater to distinct preferences—tactile versus linear—the G Pro Brown stands out for those who appreciate a tactile response combined with engaging sound quality. If you opt for either switch, expect to navigate different typing experiences that suit your individual style and needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and intended usage. If you appreciate feedback and enjoy the experience of feeling a subtle tactile bump while typing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown with its medium bottom-out force of 63 grams would be an excellent choice. It's ideal for those who desire a balanced typing experience that offers both auditory and physical feedback without being overly disruptive, making it suitable for work environments and casual gaming alike. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, the Keylin linear switch would be better suited for you. With its lighter 48 grams bottom-out force, this switch allows for a fluid typing experience, which can help reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Its premium feel and rich acoustics make it a fantastic choice for dedicated gamers or individuals who type extensively. Ultimately, consider whether you value tactile feedback or a smoother linear experience as you make your decision.
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