Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Silent Grey mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features suited for different user preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is renowned for its budget-friendly yet high-quality build, providing a subtle tactile sensation with a gentle bump that enhances typing without being too disruptive. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switches excel in delivering a quiet and highly tactile typing experience, perfect for those who prioritize satisfying keystrokes without the noise. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different use cases. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Silent Grey, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches incorporating RGB lighting. This commonality ensures that users can expect similar acoustics and aesthetics when using either of these switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 Brown opts for a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a rounder and duller sound profile. While both switches share this material for their bottom housing, the slight variations in the manufacturing process may result in subtle differences in typing experience and sound output.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Silent Grey highlights the importance of considering how each component contributes to the overall typing experience. While both switches share polycarbonate top housing for consistent sound characteristics, the use of nylon for the bottom housing introduces subtle nuances in sound profiles and typing feel. Whether one prefers the deeper tones of the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the rounder sound of the Outemu Silent Grey, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch both fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Silent Grey's 50 grams, making it a tad easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the G Pro 3.0 Brown also has a lighter bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Silent Grey requires 65 grams to fully press down. This difference means that while the Silent Grey might be easier to trigger, the typing experience may feel more substantial with the G Pro 3.0 Brown due to the higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, we can see that both switches offer the same keypress feel and travel length. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel when using either of these switches. As a result, whether using the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Silent Grey switch, users can enjoy a similar tactile feedback and keypress experience.
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 Silent Grey 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 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 Outemu Silent Grey is known for providing a quiet typing experience, which is ideal for those looking for a tactile switch that doesn't produce much noise. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches are described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in an effortless and comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, these switches offer a mild typing experience, appealing to a wide range of users, and their stepped design provides a subtle tactile feel with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. While information on the feel of the Outemu Silent Grey switches is not provided, it can be inferred that they offer a highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches are known for their economical yet high-quality design, offering a delightful tactile sensation and a medium-high pitch sound for an enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switches provide a quiet typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, suitable for users who prefer a tactile switch without the accompanying noise. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, and choosing between them would depend on the specific preferences and requirements of the user.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, you should choose the G Pro 3.0 Brown if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that provides a delightful tactile sensation without being too overwhelming. The G Pro Brown offers a medium bottom out force, a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting, and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, you should opt for the Outemu Silent Grey if you prefer a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force. The Silent Grey switches are perfect for those seeking a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke for a satisfying and silent typing session. Consider your preferences for tactile feedback, sound levels, and keypress feel to choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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