Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Cherry MX Brown

Overview

Presenting the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Cherry MX Brown, two exceptional tactile mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct advantages for different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, part of Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series, provides an economical solution without compromising on quality. With its carefully crafted subtle tactile sensation, these switches offer a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow. In addition, the frosted light diffuser ensures your RGB lighting shines brighter, creating an immersive visual experience. The G Pro Brown also delivers a medium-high pitch that adds a satisfying auditory feedback to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Browns are renowned for their subtlety. These switches offer a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. They are characterized by a textured feel and a low-pitched sound, providing a satisfying typing experience without being too loud or distracting. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

$4.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Cherry MX Brown differ in terms of the materials used. The G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the MX Brown uses a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The difference in housing materials contributes to a variation in the typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown offering a more clear and resonant sound, while the MX Brown produces a duller and rounder sound.

In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a translucent appearance, which is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the MX Brown lacks translucency. Therefore, if RGB lighting is a priority, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's polycarbonate top housing would be more suitable.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the MX Brown utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches will have similar qualities and offer a comparable typing experience.

In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Cherry MX Brown have differences in their top housing materials, their bottom housings share similar qualities due to the use of nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Brown creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially suitable for RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Brown elicits a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share a common characteristic in their nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is slightly heavier than the MX Brown. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the MX Brown requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Both switches have a medium actuation force, meaning they provide a decent amount of tactile feedback without being too heavy or too light.

However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is again slightly heavier than the MX Brown. The G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 63 grams of force to fully bottom out, while the MX Brown only requires 55 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a slightly stronger push feel during typing, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience.

The weight of a switch is an important consideration for individuals who spend long periods typing or gaming. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the MX Brown, as it allows for easier and more comfortable typing over extended periods. This makes it a suitable choice for those who use their keyboard for work or indulge in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more robust typing experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown, as its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a noticeable tactile feedback and a greater sense of keystroke presence.

In summary, while both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Cherry MX Brown have similar medium actuation forces, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience – whether one prefers a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a similar feel and travel distance. The travel distance of 4 mm is the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, providing a comfortable and responsive typing experience for users of both switches. Therefore, whether using the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Cherry MX Brown, users can expect comparable results in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback. This adds an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is described as having a subtle and subdued audio feedback. Based on this information, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch will provide a slightly higher-pitched sound compared to the MX Brown switch, which offers a quieter typing experience.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses. This means that it requires minimal force to activate the switch, resulting in effortless and comfortable typing. It also has a mild tactile feel, falling in the safe middle-ground zone that will be approachable to most users. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch can be described as stepped, meaning it has a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is described as having a textured feel, which implies noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.

Taking all the available information into account, it is evident that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch and the Cherry MX Brown switch have their unique qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a medium-high pitched sound and an easy-to-press, mild, and stepped feel. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch provides a subdued audio feedback and a textured feel. While their subjective qualities may differ, both switches offer a tactile typing experience. If you prefer a higher-pitched sound and a lighter, easy-to-press feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a quieter sound and a textured feel, the MX Brown switch would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switches depends on your personal preferences and the specific qualities you prioritize in a switch. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is an excellent choice. It offers a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, with a gentle bump that won't interrupt your typing flow. The frosted light diffuser enhances the RGB lighting, creating an immersive visual experience. The medium-high pitch adds a satisfying auditory feedback to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light typing experience and gentle tactility, the Cherry MX Brown is a solid option. Known for its subtlety, the MX Brown offers a relatively light typing experience with subdued audio feedback.

In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown does not have a specific descriptor mentioned, so its sound profile may be more neutral or balanced. On the other hand, the MX Brown is described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound with lower frequency tones, the MX Brown may be the better choice for you.

When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is described as easy-to-press, mild, and stepped. These qualities make it a responsive and low-impact typing experience. Conversely, the MX Brown is described as having a textured feel, meaning it may have noticeable friction when pressed. If you prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be more suitable for you.

In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and Cherry MX Brown tactile switches offer their own unique advantages. The G Pro 3.0 Brown provides an economical solution without compromising on quality, with a delightful tactile sensation and enhanced RGB lighting. The MX Brown, on the other hand, offers a subtler typing experience with a bassy sound profile. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and budget when making your choice between the G Pro 3.0 Brown and MX Brown switches.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$4.00 per 10

Learn more