Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Tom mechanical keyboard switches, both being tactile switches, there are some key differences to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is praised for its budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality. It offers a subtle tactile sensation with a gentle bump, ensuring a smooth typing experience without overpowering key presses. The frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting for a visually immersive experience, coupled with a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom lacks specific information about its features and benefits. If you're looking for an easy-to-press, mild, and stepped tactile switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown might be the ideal choice for you. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Tom, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles, as it is relatively stiffer and more resonant. Additionally, polycarbonate is commonly used in switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown comes with a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Tom also has a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience to the G Pro 3.0 Brown in terms of sound profile.
The difference in housing materials between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Tom can affect the overall typing experience. While both switches share polycarbonate top housings that provide a clear and resonant sound profile, the nylon bottom housing in the G Pro 3.0 Brown brings a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This contrasts with the Tom's nylon bottom housing, which also delivers a similar sound profile. The impact of the housing materials can be felt when pressing down on the switch, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, despite sharing similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Outemu Tom offer slightly different typing experiences due to their nylon bottom housings. Both switches exhibit clear and resonant sound profiles, ideal for users who enjoy a tactile typing experience. The nylon bottom housings in these switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, creating a unique sound signature that sets them apart from switches with different housing materials. Ultimately, choosing between the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Tom will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, both switches have an actuation force of 55 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial pressure required to register a keystroke. However, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a bottom out force of 63 grams, which adds a bit more resistance when fully depressing the key, while the bottom out force for the Outemu Tom switch is unknown. In terms of weight, the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be considered slightly heavier due to its higher bottom out force, making it better suited for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom switch could be more favored by those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown with 4.0 mm and the Outemu Tom with 3.3 mm, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a longer travel distance than the Tom. The 0.7 mm of difference may not seem significant, but it can make a difference in how the keys feel and respond when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a deeper, more substantial key press may find the G Pro 3.0 Brown to be more to their liking, while those who prefer a quicker, shallower feel may lean towards the Outemu Tom. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance and key feel.
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 Tom 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 overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch sound characteristics are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is praised for being 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. The mild nature of these switches makes them approachable to most users, striking a good balance between sound and feel. Additionally, they offer a stepped sensation, providing a more subtle tactile feedback with some pre-travel and post-travel stages in the keystroke. Conversely, the characteristics of the Outemu Tom tactile switch feel are unspecified.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch stands out for its economical yet high-quality design, offering a delightful tactile sensation with a medium-high pitch sound profile. The switches are easy-to-press and provide a mild typing experience with a stepped feel, enhancing the typing sessions. On the other hand, the specific sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch are unknown, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in those aspects. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results depending on personal preferences and usage requirements.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, tactile feedback, and typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a gentle tactile bump that enhances your typing flow without being too overwhelming, then the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force and are open to exploring different options, then the Tom could be worth considering. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your individual typing style and preference for a specific feel and sound. Choose the switch that aligns best with your personal preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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