Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, also a tactile switch. The G Pro 3.0 Brown from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series presents an exceptional option that combines affordability and quality. These switches provide a subtle and delightful tactile sensation, carefully designed to offer a gentle bump without disrupting your typing flow. Not only does it enhance your typing experience, but it also features a frosted light diffuser, ensuring your RGB lighting shines brighter, creating an immersive visual experience. With a medium-high pitch and satisfying auditory feedback, each keystroke becomes a joyous moment. On the other hand, we have the Polaris Purple, known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience. These switches offer a big tactile bump that adds a thrilling element to each keystroke. The sound profile is snappy, further enhancing the overall typing experience. Categorized as neutral, mild, and polished, the Polaris Purple offers a unique sensation compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown's easy-to-press, mild, and stepped categorization. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and SP-Star Polaris Purple have similar top housings made of polycarbonate. The use of polycarbonate in the housings of both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it particularly suitable for using RGB lighting. So, if you are looking for a switch with a clear housing to enhance your RGB lighting experience, both switches would yield similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a difference between the two switches. The G Pro 3.0 Brown's bottom housing is made of nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Polaris Purple features a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This means that the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate will also be present in the bottom-out sound and feel of the Polaris Purple switch.
Overall, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown and Polaris Purple may have different bottom housings, their top housings provide a similar sound profile due to both being made of polycarbonate. If you prioritize a switch with a clear housing for RGB lighting, both switches are suitable options. However, if you prefer a deeper and fuller sound when typing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's nylon bottom housing might be more appealing. On the other hand, if you want a consistent sound profile throughout the entire keystroke, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing for both top and bottom would be preferable.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is the force required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Polaris Purple is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly. However, both switches have a medium actuation force, suggesting a similar typing experience in terms of triggering keystrokes.
Moving on to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a force of 63 grams. This indicates the amount of force required when fully pressing down on the key. In comparison, the SP-Star Polaris Purple has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a slightly heavier typing experience.
Consideration of weight is crucial when selecting a switch, as it can influence typing comfort and duration. Those seeking a lighter switch may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Brown, as its actuation force and bottom out force are lower. This lighter option is particularly suitable for individuals who require extended typing sessions, such as in a work or gaming environment. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the heavier SP-Star Polaris Purple switch.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces are somewhat comparable between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, the bottom out forces differ slightly. The G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for prolonged use, while the Polaris Purple provides a heavier typing sensation for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the exact same distance of travel. Both switches provide a consistent experience in terms of the distance your fingers have to travel when typing or gaming. So whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Polaris Purple, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 switch is best described as having a medium-high pitch sound profile that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback. This adds an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the sound profile of the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is described as neutral, which means it has a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the switch at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers an easy-to-press experience. These switches have a gentle resistance during key presses and require minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The G Pro Brown switches also have a mild feel, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, they have a stepped feel, which means you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during key presses.
Similarly, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch also offers a mild typing experience. It falls into a safe, middle-ground zone where the sound and feel are approachable to most users. These switches are also described as polished, which means they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches provide different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro Brown offers a more identifiable medium-high pitch sound and an easy-to-press, stepped feel. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple provides a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience. Both switches offer a tactile sensation, although the G Pro Brown is described as having a subtle tactile bump while the Polaris Purple has a big tactile bump. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a gentle typing experience and polished feel, either of these switches could be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a specific sound profile or a more stepped feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch would be the better option.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is an excellent choice. These switches offer a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, with a medium-high pitch that adds an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. The frosted light diffuser ensures your RGB lighting shines brighter, creating an immersive visual experience. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is described as easy-to-press, mild, and stepped, offering a responsive and low-impact typing feel.
On the other hand, if you're seeking an exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is the switch for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it provides a medium-heavy tactile bump that enhances the typing experience. The Polaris Purple is described as mild and polished, offering a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Purple will depend on your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Both switches offer their own unique advantages and can greatly enhance your typing experience. Consider your typing style and preferences to determine which switch will best suit your needs.
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