Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Bsun Kiki Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between a tactile switch like the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and a linear switch like the Bsun Kiki Red can greatly influence your typing experience. The G Pro Brown offers a gentle tactile bump that enhances typing flow, with a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Kiki Red provides a smooth and clacky typing experience with a high-pitched sound, all thanks to its unique POM housing and Ly stems. While the G Pro Brown is known for its subtle tactile sensation, the Kiki Red excels in providing a finely-tuned typing experience with a focus on performance and 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
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Bsun Kiki Red, it is clear that both switches have unique characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. In contrast, the Kiki Red's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials offer distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a nylon material, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Similarly, the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of their bottom housing, showcasing a preference for a deeper and rounder sound.
When considering the overall typing experience, the impact of the top and bottom housing materials becomes evident. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Kiki Red may differ in their housing materials, they ultimately offer a comparable typing experience with their unique sound profiles stemming from their top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it becomes evident that the Kiki Red is the lighter option. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, offering a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the Kiki Red features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter alternative. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Brown, while individuals who favor a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions might opt for the Kiki Red. Despite the difference in weight, both switches provide reliable performance, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience based on personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Kiki Red. The 4.0mm distance is more traditional and provides a deeper press, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the 3.6mm distance of the Kiki Red offers a shorter travel, which is favored by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer a longer, more deliberate press or a shorter, quicker response. Both switches provide a different tactile experience, so selecting the right one for you depends on your specific typing or gaming needs.
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 Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 offers a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red is described as having a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the G Pro Brown leaning towards a slightly higher pitch while the Kiki Red offers a distinct clackiness.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is known for being easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This enhances the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel. The Kiki Red, on the other hand, is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal friction. The Kiki Red is also noted for its silkiness, providing an exceptionally smooth typing sensation that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Bsun Kiki Red switches offer distinct tactile and auditory experiences that cater to different preferences. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a medium-high pitch and easy-to-press feel, the Bsun Kiki Red boasts a clacky sound profile and a creamy, silky typing experience. Both switches excel in their unique qualities, and choosing between them will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium tactile bump and a medium-high pitch sound, then the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a clacky sound and smooth, frictionless feel, then the Bsun Kiki Red would be more suited to your taste. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and typing experience when making your decision. Remember to test out different switches if possible to find the one that best suits your needs and enhances your typing experience.
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