Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Cherry MX Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two distinct options to enhance your typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a tactile typing sensation with a gentle bump that facilitates a smooth typing flow, coupled with a medium-high pitch for an enjoyable auditory feedback. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red provides a quieter typing experience while maintaining the satisfying typing feel similar to the MX Red switch. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and environments. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is perfect for those who prefer a tactile typing experience with a bit of audible feedback, while the MX Silent Red is ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience, particularly in noise-sensitive environments. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Cherry MX Silent Red, it is clear that they both feature a nylon bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. The nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. This similarity ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
However, where the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown differs is in its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red features a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile but in a different way. The softer nature of nylon in the top housing creates a sound that is slightly more muffled and round compared to the crisper sound produced by polycarbonate.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Cherry MX Silent Red will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing that provides a deep and full sound profile, they differ in their top housing materials. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and clearer sound, while the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top housing creates a slightly more muted and rounded sound. Users looking for a crisper typing experience may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Brown, while those seeking a softer sound may lean towards the MX Silent Red.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the Cherry MX Silent Red is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 45 grams. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 63 grams, which is unavailable for the MX Silent Red. The G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red's lighter actuation force may be preferred by individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it can help reduce fatigue. Ultimately, both switches have their own advantages, and the choice between them depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the MX Silent Red's 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown offering a bit more depth in keypress feel. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the MX Silent Red, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience may lean towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference in key feel and responsiveness.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 tactile switch 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 Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is known for its muted and thocky sound profile, creating a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the G Pro Brown providing a more pronounced auditory feedback compared to the silent operation of the MX Silent Red.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is described as easy-to-press with a mild tactile bump that enhances the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel. Additionally, the switch is noted for its stepped tactile sensation, providing a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is described as having a textured feel, potentially offering more friction compared to a smoother typing experience. The MX Silent Red maintains a slightly heftier feel akin to the MX Red while ensuring a quieter operation, making it a suitable choice for those looking for a more subtle typing feel.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The G Pro Brown provides a more pronounced tactile bump and a medium-high pitch sound, while the MX Silent Red ensures a quieter typing experience with a more restrained feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience, with both options guaranteeing a quality mechanical keyboard switch for your setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider your primary priorities. If you value a subtle tactile sensation with a medium bottom out force and enjoy a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience without sacrificing the satisfying feel of a slightly heftier switch, the MX Silent Red is a great option due to its muted sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel and sound output in order to enhance your overall typing experience.
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