Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Durock Lupine - two mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, known for its budget-friendly nature, offers an exceptional typing experience without compromising on quality. With its tactile design, this switch provides a gentle bump that enhances typing flow without being overwhelming. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser ensures vibrant RGB lighting, creating an immersive visual experience. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine boasts two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution when pressed and a powerful upward movement upon rebound. Typing on these linear switches produces a classic clacky sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown leans towards an easy-to-press and mild feel with a medium-high pitch, the Lupine offers a neutral and mild experience with a polished high-pitched profile. However, let's dive in deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Durock Lupine both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in switches. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent property of polycarbonate makes it particularly useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic appeal from both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Lupine when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Lupine utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that offers a different sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound when compared to harder plastics. As a result, the bottom housings of the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Lupine contribute to a duller and rounder sound when the switch is bottomed out. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound characteristics from both switches due to their shared nylon bottom housings.
When considering the overall functionality of the switches, the different housing materials have a noticeable impact. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, predominantly nylon, will be felt. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the switch's bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to the depth and fullness of the typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing, primarily made of polycarbonate, influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the sharp and crisp sound profile associated with polycarbonate will be more prominent when users let go of a key. Therefore, while the housing materials are the same or similar in certain aspects, their distribution between the top and bottom of the switch results in distinct experiences during both keypress and release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are both similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is slightly lighter as it has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, which are both considered medium. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Lupine switch is unavailable. However, its bottom out force is 62 grams, which is also classified as medium. Therefore, while the exact actuation force of the Lupine switch is unknown, it can be assumed that it is within a similar range to the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch. Ultimately, for those who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be the preferred choice. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Lupine switches offer a comparable level of heaviness.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which is considered to be a more traditional length. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Lupine switch the shorter option between the two. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Lupine switch due to its shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the G Pro 3.0 Brown with its longer travel distance might be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired level of key travel depth.
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 Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 switch is best described as having a medium-high pitch and delivering a satisfying auditory feedback. It offers a delightful and subtle tactile sensation that adds an extra layer of joy to typing sessions. The Lupine switch, on the other hand, is described as having a classic clacky sound profile. It produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making it a good choice for those who prefer a higher-pitched sound. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It also has a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, it is considered a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Similarly, the Lupine switch is also described as having a mild feel that is approachable to most users. It offers a gentle typing experience without more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, it is mentioned to have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This indicates reduced friction and smooth key travel, possibly due to materials used or factory lubing.
Based on the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch and the Durock Lupine switch have some similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. They also provide a level of tactile feedback, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown having a subtle and gentle bump, and the Lupine having a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a medium-high pitch sound profile, the Lupine produces a classic clacky sound. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience, and depending on personal preference, they can both provide satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch would be a great choice. These switches offer a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, with a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow. The frosted light diffuser ensures brighter RGB lighting for an immersive visual experience, and the medium-high pitch adds an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer linear switches and enjoy a consistent weight distribution while typing, the Durock Lupine linear switch would be a treat for you. These switches have two-stage long springs that provide a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, they produce a classic clacky sound profile. Both switches have a bottom out force of 62-63 grams, which is medium. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactile or linear switches, as well as the specific sound and feel characteristics described for each switch.
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