Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Quinn, two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for users. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is part of Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series, providing an economical solution without compromising on quality. Designed to offer a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, this switch features a gentle bump that enhances typing flow. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser ensures vibrant RGB lighting for an immersive visual experience, while the medium-high pitch provides satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Quinn switches stand out with their specially designed nylon housings, delivering a crisp, light and resonant sound profile that adds character to each keystroke. These switches offer a precise and clean tactile bump, providing an excellent typing experience. However, let's dive into both of these switches in more detail to help you make the best choice for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
59g
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
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Quinn differ in terms of their composition and how they affect the sound profiles of the switches. The G Pro 3.0 Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more resonant sound. Moreover, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Quinn utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a rounder and duller tone. While both materials have distinct sound qualities, the nylon top housing of the Quinn offers a deeper sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Brown.
Similarly, the bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. With nylon being softer and more sound-absorbent than harder plastics, it generates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the bottom housing materials of both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Quinn exhibit similar qualities in terms of sound production. Whether you press down on the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Quinn, you will experience a deeper and fuller sound due to their nylon bottom housings.
Although there are differences in the top and bottom housing materials of the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Quinn, their overall impact on the switch's sound profile is similar. When you press down on either switch, the sound profile will be influenced by the bottom housing, which has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing affects the sound when you release a key. While the specific characteristics of their respective housing materials may differ, both switches provide a unique auditory experience when typing, blending the tactile feedback with distinct sound profiles stemming from their top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Quinn's 59 grams. Both switches have a medium actuation force, meaning they provide a comfortable level of resistance for typing or gaming.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is again slightly lighter with 63 grams, while the Quinn has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This makes the Quinn a medium-heavy switch, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Considering weight, typing for extended periods of time may be more comfortable with the lighter G Pro 3.0 Brown, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Quinn's heavier forces can cater to individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch offers a slightly lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch. While both switches fall into the medium category, the Quinn provides a heavier typing experience for those who prefer it. Choosing between the two depends on personal preference, with the lighter option being more suitable for extended typing sessions, and the heavier option offering a more substantial push feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Brown is more traditional, providing a deeper key press and a more satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Quinn with its 3.4 mm travel distance is shallower and tends to be favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer their own advantages depending on individual preferences. Those who prioritize a more responsive experience may lean towards the Quinn, while those who prefer a deeper key press would likely opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown. Regardless of the choice, users can expect a high-quality experience from Gateron switches.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 delivers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback. It offers a pleasant and subtle sound profile that won't overpower your typing flow. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switches are described as having a deep, resonant sound profile. With each keystroke, users can expect a rich and immersive sound that adds character to the typing experience. This sound is clean, sharp, and resonates at a higher pitch. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is characterized as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses. It requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. This switch enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel. Additionally, it is described as mild, standing in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of its qualities. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switches are described as snappy, indicating their super-responsive nature. This responsiveness is achieved through longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. The Quinn switches can also be polished, offering a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. They provide reduced friction and smooth key travel. Moreover, they are accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It's important to mention that the Quinn switches also have a bouncy sensation, giving a spring-like or elastic feedback when pressed. Lastly, the Gateron Quinn switches offer a buttery and creamy typing experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation.
Based on the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches and the Gateron Quinn switches have some subjective differences in sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Brown switches have a medium-high pitch sound and offer an easy-to-press and mild feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switches have a deep, resonant sound profile and provide a snappy and polished feel, along with other descriptors such as bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. It's important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these switches. However, if you prefer a switch with similar sound and feel qualities, the Gateron Quinn switches may offer a comparable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a delightful and subtle tactile sensation with a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow. The frosted light diffuser ensures that your RGB lighting shines brighter for an immersive visual experience. Additionally, the medium-high pitch of these switches delivers a satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions.
On the other hand, if you prefer a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be a suitable option. These switches are designed with nylon housings to provide a rich and immersive sound with each keystroke, adding character to your typing experience. Expect a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump as well.
In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is known for its medium pitch and satisfying auditory feedback, while the Quinn offers a range of sound profiles including bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant. The Quinn switches provide a deeper and richer sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is described as easy-to-press, mild, and stepped switches. These switches offer a responsive and low-impact typing feel, making typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the Quinn switches are described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. These switches provide a more alive and lively typing experience with smooth and refined finishes.
Ultimately, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch depends on your preferences. If you prioritize budget-friendliness and a gentle tactile sensation, go for the G Pro 3.0 Brown. If you prefer a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep sound profile, the Quinn switches would be a great choice for you. Assess your desired sound and feel preferences to make an informed decision.
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