Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Lotus stand out as notable options with distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, known for its tactile feedback, offers a gentle bump that enhances typing precision without being too intrusive. Its budget-friendly nature combined with quality construction makes it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus boasts a linear design, providing smooth and consistent keystrokes ideal for fast typists. While the G Pro Brown emphasizes tactile sensation and auditory feedback, the Lotus focuses on a seamless typing flow. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and Outemu Lotus switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown features a polycarbonate material that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant sound. In contrast, the Lotus uses a nylon top housing, which also elicits a deeper and fuller sound, but with a duller and rounder profile compared to polycarbonate. This difference in top housing material indicates that users may experience a varying sound quality when using these switches, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown offering a sharper sound compared to the Lotus.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and Outemu Lotus switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Lotus's nylon top housing. Whether you prefer a more resonant and clear sound or a duller and rounder sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, we see a clear difference in weight. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Lotus offers a lighter touch with an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Lotus switch more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown will appeal to users who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, we can see that the G Pro has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lotus has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The G Pro with its 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, offering a deeper press compared to the Lotus. On the other hand, the Lotus with its shorter 3.3 mm travel distance is preferred by gamers for its faster response times. Both switches have their own appeal, with the G Pro offering a deeper key press and the Lotus providing a quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between a longer or shorter travel distance depends on personal preference and the intended use of the keyboard.
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 Lotus 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, both switches have a different auditory experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying feedback to the user, enhancing the typing experience with a pleasant sound. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Lotus switch is not specified, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is praised for being easy-to-press, offering a gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate. This results in a comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The switch is also described as having a mild tactile sensation and a stepped feel, providing a responsive typing experience that is not too overwhelming. On the other hand, there is no specific information available on the feel of the Outemu Lotus switch, making it challenging to directly compare its tactile qualities with the G Pro 3.0 Brown.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality design, offering a delightful typing experience with a subtle tactile bump and medium-high pitch sound. While the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have detailed information available on its sound and feel, it is important to consider personal preference and typing style when choosing between these switches. Ultimately, both switches are likely to provide a satisfactory typing experience for users seeking a balance between performance and affordability.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider the following guidelines: Opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown if you prefer a medium bottom out force, enjoy a subtle tactile sensation with a gentle bump, and appreciate a medium-high pitch for auditory feedback during typing. This switch is ideal for those looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality and wanting to enhance their typing experience with a responsive and low-impact feel. On the other hand, choose the Lotus if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a linear switch without tactile feedback. The Lotus offers a smooth keystroke without any bump, providing a consistent typing experience for those who prefer linear switches. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
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