Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Crystal Brown 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 Outemu Crystal Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both tactile options offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is praised for its economical price point while maintaining top-notch quality, providing a subtle tactile sensation with a gentle bump that enhances typing comfort. Moreover, its frosted light diffuser ensures vibrant RGB lighting for a visually engaging experience, accompanied by a medium-high pitch and satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown, while lacking specific standout features in the provided information, may appeal to those seeking a more straightforward tactile switch option. 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
55g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Crystal Brown feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The nylon bottom housing of both switches, however, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. While the top and bottom housings in both switches offer different sound profiles, they ultimately provide a balance between sharpness and depth in the typing experience.
In terms of material composition, the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Crystal Brown share similar characteristics with their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches benefit from the stiffer plastic of polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and crisp sound profile. Additionally, the nylon bottom housings in both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to their softer composition that absorbs more noise. Despite any slight differences between the two switches, their shared housing materials ultimately provide a consistent sound experience for users seeking a balance between sharpness and depth in their typing.
While the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Crystal Brown may have distinct design elements, such as the translucency of their polycarbonate top housings, their overall housing materials contribute to a comparable typing experience. Whether it's the sharper, higher-pitched sound profile of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound profile of nylon, both switches offer a balance between different sound qualities depending on which part of the switch is being used. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel when typing on either the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Crystal Brown, showcasing the benefits of quality housing materials in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, we can see some differences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's 45 grams, making the G Pro 3.0 Brown require more force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown also has a heavier force of 63 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's 55 grams, indicating that the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown offers a lighter typing experience with both lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel, with lighter switches being preferable for longer typing sessions while heavier switches offering a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity results in a consistent typing experience for users regardless of which switch they choose. Overall, the travel distance of both switches provides a tactile feedback that is satisfying for users who prefer a shorter travel distance compared to other switches on the market.
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 Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 is known for its medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback, enhancing the typing experience with an extra layer of joy. The Outemu Crystal Brown switch sound quality is not available, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is characterized as easy-to-press, offering a gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to activate. This results in a comfortable and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the switch provides a mild tactile sensation that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. The G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is also considered stepped, providing a two-stage tactile feedback with some pre-travel and post-travel sensation. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is not available.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch offers a delightful and subtle tactile sensation with a medium-high pitch sound that adds joy to typing sessions. The switch is easy-to-press, providing a gentle and comfortable typing experience that is suitable for extended use. While information on the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is limited, based on the available information, both switches may provide a similar typing experience in terms of feel and sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and budget considerations.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a medium-high pitch sound with a gentle tactile sensation that won't overpower your typing flow, the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, the Crystal Brown could be a great fit. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
