Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Durock Koala are both popular choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for tactile switches. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is praised for its gentle tactile sensation that enhances typing without being overly disruptive, making it a great option for those who value a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Koala offers a more pronounced bump, providing a satisfying keystroke feel for those who prefer a bit more feedback in their typing. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown is known for its budget-friendly quality and medium-high pitch, the Durock Koala stands out with its polished, low-pitched keystrokes and a slight resonance. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Durock Koala feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a popular choice for switches meant to be used with RGB setups. However, while both switches share this common feature, the differences in their bottom housings set them apart.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Durock Koala utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings provides a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with different bottom housing materials. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, it is important to note that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials, particularly the nylon bottom housings, give the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Durock Koala distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Brown may offer a slightly different typing experience compared to the Koala due to the unique qualities that nylon brings to the switch. However, the polycarbonate top housings on both switches ensure a similar crisp and sharp sound profile, making them both suitable choices for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches may come down to personal preference and how much emphasis one places on the different sound qualities each housing material provides.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Brown is lighter in terms of actuation force at 55 grams, while the Koala has no specified actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 63 grams for bottom out, which is slightly lighter than the Koala at 67 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Koala. The actuation force plays a significant role in determining the feel of the switch while typing, with a lighter actuation force being preferred for longer typing sessions. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the heavier bottom out force of the Koala may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect consistent and comparable typing experiences with both switches in terms of the travel distance. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Koala switches offer a tactile feedback with the same travel distance, providing a familiar feel for users who prefer this level of key travel.
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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 provides a satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is known for being easy-to-press with gentle resistance during key presses, making typing effortless and comfortable. It also offers a mild typing experience and a stepped tactility that provides a subtle bump. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. It is also accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Durock Koala switch is noted for its stepped feel and stiffness, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate compared to other switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and Durock Koala switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a medium-high pitch sound and an easy-to-press, mild feel. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switch has a low-pitched sound and a polished, accented feel with a stepped tactility and stiffness. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the typing experience one is seeking.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a more gentle and subtle tactile sensation with a medium bottom out force, the G Pro Brown may be the right choice for you. The frosted light diffuser and medium-high pitch of the G Pro Brown add to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more punch in terms of tactility and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Koala could be a better fit. The stepped tactility and bit of resonance provided by the Koala offer a unique typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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