Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Kailh Sage

Overview

Presenting two noteworthy mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Kailh Sage. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch, is an exceptional addition to Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series. These switches provide an economical solution without compromising on quality. With a carefully crafted tactile sensation, they offer a gentle bump that enhances typing flow. The frosted light diffuser ensures vibrant RGB lighting, creating an immersive visual experience. Additionally, the medium-high pitch delivers a satisfying auditory feedback, adding joy to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage, a clicky switch, offers a distinct clicky typing experience. Known for its heavy weight and refreshingly sharp clickiness, the Sage switch provides invigorating tactile feedback that appeals to enthusiasts who desire a more pronounced typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your keyboard needs.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

Kailh Sage Clicky

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Kailh Sage both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in both switches' housings leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making them ideal choices for those who prioritize sound quality during typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of these switches. Thus, whether you opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Kailh Sage, you can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting.

In terms of bottom housing material, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Sage utilize nylon. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housings contribute to a duller and rounder sound when the keys are bottomed out, enhancing the overall typing experience. Thus, regardless of whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Sage, you can enjoy a satisfying typing sound and feel thanks to the nylon bottom housing.

It's worth noting that the differences in housing materials between the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Sage mean that the qualities each material brings to the switch will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more noticeable in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when you release a key. This distinction allows for a nuanced typing experience and gives users the ability to choose a switch that aligns with their specific preferences in terms of sound and tactile feedback.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that they both fall into the medium category in terms of weight. The G Pro 3.0 Brown requires an actuation force of 55 grams, while its bottom out force is slightly heavier at 63 grams. On the other hand, the exact actuation force for the Sage switch is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be the ideal choice. With a lower actuation force, this switch allows for comfortable and effortless typing, making it suitable for extended periods of use, such as during work or long gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and pronounced key press might favor the Kailh Sage clicky switch. Its higher bottom out force provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying and tactile typing experience.

While the actuation force of the Kailh Sage is unknown, it is reasonable to assume that it falls within a similar range to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, as both switches are categorized as medium in terms of weight. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation force, but the Sage switch offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more significant physical feedback compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of travel distance, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a more traditional experience with its 4.0 mm distance, while the Sage provides a slightly shallower 3.6 mm distance. The 4.0 mm distance is commonly preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press, as it provides a more satisfying and deliberate feel. On the other hand, the 3.6 mm distance of the Sage appeals to gamers and individuals seeking faster response times, as the shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference. If you enjoy a deeper and more pronounced key press, the G Pro 3.0 Brown with its 4.0 mm travel distance would be the ideal option. However, if you prioritize faster response times and prefer a shallower key press, the Sage with its 3.6 mm travel distance would be the better choice. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, catering to different user preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback. The exact sound profile is not specified, but these switches are designed to provide a delightful and subtle tactile sensation without overpowering the typing flow. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is described as crunchy, with a distinct clicky typing experience that is commonly associated with the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is described as easy-to-press and mild. These switches offer gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. They provide a responsive and low-impact typing feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switches are also referred to as stepped switches, meaning they have a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.

On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is described as invigorating and sharp. These switches offer pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive feel during typing. The tactile bump of the Sage switch is strong and crisp, providing a distinct tactile sensation with each keypress.

Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch and the Kailh Sage switch offer different qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, with a medium-high pitch sound profile and an easy-to-press, mild feel. On the other hand, the Sage switch offers a distinct clicky sound, described as crunchy, with an invigorating and sharp typing feel. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. If you are looking for a similar tactile feedback with a more subtle sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a pronounced clicky sound and a more invigorating typing feel, the Kailh Sage switch would be a better option.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for an economical yet high-quality option, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is an excellent choice. These switches provide a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, with a medium-high pitch that adds joy to your typing sessions. Plus, the frosted light diffuser ensures your RGB lighting shines brightly, enhancing the visual experience. The G Pro 3.0 Brown's easy-to-press, mild, and stepped feel offers a responsive and low-impact typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended use.

On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier feel, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, the Sage offers a refreshingly sharp clickiness. Its invigorating and sharp tactile qualities create an immersive typing sensation, allowing for pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel.

In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a satisfying auditory feedback without overpowering your typing flow. The Sage, on the other hand, provides a crunchy sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch will depend on your preferences. If you value an affordable option with a subtle tactile sensation and a low-impact typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the way to go. However, if you prefer a distinct clicky experience with a heavier feel and pronounced feedback, the Sage is an excellent choice. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.25 per 10

Learn more