Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch, offers an exceptional budget-friendly option from Gateron's G Pro series. With a delicate tactile sensation and a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting, this switch strikes a balance between a gentle bump and a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out with its innovative design, providing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. It offers a silky smooth type feel without being over-polished. Choosing between these switches depends on your specific typing preferences, however, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear share similar housing materials, with both switches having polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a more sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Aesthetically, the clear housing of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Semi-Silent Linear also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softness, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
As a result of the contrasting bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Semi-Silent Linear will offer slightly different experiences when it comes to the typing sound and feel. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when a key is released.
In summary, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear share the advantage of a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile. However, their different nylon bottom housings contribute to variations in the overall typing sound and feel. Nonetheless, users can expect similar results in terms of the clear and resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, we find some similarities and differences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear where the available information on actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force with the G Pro 3.0 Brown requiring 63 grams and the Semi-Silent Linear requiring 62 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to enable longer periods of typing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be a suitable choice. This switch will provide a comfortable actuation force while still delivering a medium bottom out force for a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, if one desires a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Semi-Silent Linear would be a great option. Its bottom out force of 62 grams will provide the desired level of resistance and feedback while typing.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches offer different actuation forces but similar bottom out forces. The choice between them will ultimately come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Brown the longer of the two switches. The 4.0 mm travel distance is more in line with traditional switch distances, providing a deeper and more satisfying key press. On the other hand, the 3.7 mm travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a shallower and quicker key press. This shorter distance can be advantageous for gamers who value faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 provides a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback. It offers a delightful and subtle tactile sensation with a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as subdued, producing a dampened sound when pressed. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches.
When it comes to feel, both switches are described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that would be approachable to most users. The G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is also considered easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is also described as stepped, providing a slightly more mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, on the other hand, is described as snappy, indicating its super responsive nature. This could be due to longer or dual-staged springs, which enhances the typing experience, making it feel more alive. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is also described as buttery and polished, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, with a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. Its feel is easy-to-press, mild, and stepped, enhancing the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is subdued in sound, providing a more subtle sound signature. Its feel is mild, snappy, buttery, and polished, offering a smooth and responsive typing experience. While they have some similar qualities, each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and typing style.
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 is the way to go. These switches offer a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, providing a gentle bump that won't interrupt your typing flow. The RGB lighting on these switches is enhanced with a frosted light diffuser, creating an immersive visual experience. They also deliver a satisfying auditory feedback with a medium-high pitch. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued sound when typing, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is a great choice. While it is not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The Semi-Silent Linear switch has a silky smooth type feel, but not over-polished, providing an enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and whether you prioritize a tactile bump or a quieter typing experience.
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