Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Smoothie stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is praised for its tactile feedback, providing a gentle bump that enhances typing without being too pronounced. Its frosted light diffuser ensures vibrant RGB lighting, while its medium-high pitch adds a satisfying auditory element to typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie boasts a unique all-POM construction, offering a thocky sound signature and remarkable smoothness for a lightweight typing experience. Choosing the G Pro 3.0 Brown may suit those looking for a tactile typing experience, while the Smoothie could appeal to those seeking a buttery and quieter typing experience. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Smoothie, we see that the G Pro 3.0 Brown features a polycarbonate top housing while the Smoothie has a POM top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Brown creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Smoothie produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique typing experience that may be preferred by users looking for a quieter switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Smoothie features a POM bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Brown contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a more robust typing experience. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie also creates a deep and muted sound, offering a different but equally satisfying typing experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Smoothie, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown features a stiffer polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound and a softer nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound, the Smoothie offers a POM top and bottom housing combination for a more muted and pleasing typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires a heavier force for both actuation and bottoming out compared to the Smoothie. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Smoothie has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, although the bottom out force is not specified. Choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel, with lighter switches being preferable for longer typing sessions and heavier switches for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a medium-weight option while the Smoothie provides a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feeling when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Smoothie's shorter travel distance may appeal to users looking for a faster response time and a more immediate tactile feedback. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences. Ultimately, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown may offer a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Smoothie, providing a different typing or gaming experience for users.
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 Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is known for its medium-high pitch that offers a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is described as thocky, producing a deep and rich sound that is low-pitched and subdued. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a more traditional tactile switch sound, the Smoothie offers a unique and satisfying thocky sound signature that many users enjoy.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and a mild typing experience that enhances typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. The switch is also described as stepped, providing a subtle two-stage tactile feedback that is comfortable for extended use. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is known for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience that feels effortless and uniform. The Smoothie provides a different tactile experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown, focusing more on smoothness and fluidity in keystrokes.
Overall, it's important to consider your personal preferences when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch. If you enjoy a traditional tactile switch with a medium-high pitch and gentle bump, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is a great choice. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a thocky sound and a buttery, creamy, or silky feel that promotes smooth typing, then the Gateron Smoothie might be more suited to your taste. Both switches offer quality performance at an affordable price point, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you should consider your preferences for tactility and sound. If you enjoy a gentle tactile bump paired with a medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound profile and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing style and the sensations you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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