Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Outemu Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Red, each offering unique benefits suited to different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, recognized for its tactile responsiveness, strikes a balance by providing a subtle bump that enhances typing accuracy without being overly distracting. This switch not only promises an economical price tag but also elevates the experience with a frosted light diffuser, ensuring vibrant RGB lighting that adds aesthetic flair to your setup. In contrast, the Outemu Red features a linear design, which means it offers a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback, making it ideal for gamers seeking rapid keypress registration and fluid transitions during gameplay. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown appeals to typists who enjoy tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction, the Outemu Red is favored by those who prioritize speed and consistency. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

Outemu Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and Outemu Red switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a notably similar sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate is known for being a stiffer plastic, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. This material's translucency also makes it a popular choice for switches that are used with RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination that enhances the keyboard's aesthetic appeal. Consequently, users can expect comparable auditory experiences with both switches due to their shared top housing material, making them suitable for setups that prioritize sound quality and visual flair.

On the other hand, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, contributing further to their similarities. Nylon's characteristics, being a softer plastic, create a deeper and fuller sound profile, effectively absorbing more noise than harsher materials. This results in a rounder, less sharp auditory experience when the keys bottom out. Since nylon tends to dampen sound, it complements the crispness of the polycarbonate top housing, creating a balanced auditory profile across both switches. Users of either the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Outemu Red can expect a solid blend of high-pitched sound from the top housing and a fuller experience from the bottom housing, leading to a coherent typing experience.

Despite their differences in branding and tactile feedback—where the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a tactile bump and the Outemu Red features a linear feel—both switches achieve similar results when it comes to sound and aesthetic performance due to their shared housing materials. The combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom means that while users experience distinct actuation types, the overall sound characteristics will remain quite similar. This consistency enables users to choose between the two based on personal preference for tactile feedback without sacrificing audio quality or visual appeal, showcasing how housing material can significantly influence the performance of mechanical keyboard switches.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, we see some distinct differences in their actuation forces while their bottom out forces are quite similar. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it heavier than the Outemu Red, which requires only 46 grams to actuate. This lighter actuation force of the Red switch may appeal to users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, particularly during long work hours or gaming sessions. However, both switches have comparable bottom out forces, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown at 63 grams and the Outemu Red at 62 grams. This proximity indicates that while the initial actuation feels different, the final typing experience in reaching the bottom is relatively similar for both switches. Therefore, users who favor a lighter switch might gravitate toward the Outemu Red, while those looking for a more substantial tactile response may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Brown.

Travel distance

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch both have an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will have comparable typing experiences in terms of the key press depth. Since both switches share the same travel distance, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and response, making either option suitable for those who prefer a consistent typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is characterized by a medium-high pitch that offers satisfying auditory feedback during use. This gentle sound contributes to an engaging typing experience without being overly intrusive. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch lacks a specific sound description, which suggests it may not have the same notable auditory qualities as the G Pro Brown. However, it’s important to note that the sound can also be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard plate material and keycap choice.

In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch excels with an easy-to-press action, providing gentle resistance that minimizes the force needed for activation. This low actuation force enhances comfort and reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The tactile feedback is mild and described as stepped, allowing typists to experience a subtle yet satisfying bump without being overwhelming. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Red switch isn’t specifically outlined, indicating potential variability in its tactile experience, but generally, linear switches tend to offer a smooth and consistent keystroke throughout.

Considering the information available, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a well-rounded experience with notable sound and tactile feedback, making it a compelling choice for users who appreciate a blend of auditory and physical sensations while typing. The Outemu Red switch, while less detailed in sound and feel descriptions, suggests a simpler linear experience that may suit those who prefer a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, but if sound quality, tactile feedback, and comfort are significant factors for you, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be the more favorable option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switches and the Outemu Red linear switches should be guided by your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate tactile feedback and a slight auditory response while typing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown will likely enhance your experience, particularly during prolonged sessions. Its mild bump provides a satisfying sensation without being overly pronounced, making it an excellent choice for typists and programmers who value the reassurance of knowing their key presses have registered. Conversely, if you prefer a smooth, fast-paced keystroke with minimal resistance, particularly suited for gaming or quick typing tasks, then the Outemu Red linear switch would be more fitting for your needs. With its easy-to-press design, you will find it ideal for rapid key presses without any tactile distractions. Ultimately, by assessing your typing style and the nature of your use—whether it leans towards gaming or extensive typing—you'll be able to select the switch that best aligns with your preferences, ensuring a more enjoyable keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more