Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Jwick Splash Brothers, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct experiences for typing enthusiasts. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch, is part of Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series. It provides an economical solution without compromising quality, offering a delightful and subtle tactile sensation. The gentle bump it delivers enhances typing flow without being overpowering. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, creating an immersive visual experience. With a medium-high pitch, these switches provide satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers, a linear switch, stands out with its shorter activation and long pole stem, delivering a great typing feel. These switches offer a creamy sound signature, enhancing the overall typing experience. Categorized as neutral, mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished, they offer unique characteristics for those seeking speed and efficiency. 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
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Jwick Splash Brothers both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for the switches. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it particularly useful for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar sound experience and aesthetic appeal due to their polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of the bottom housings, the G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a nylon material while the Splash Brothers also feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound due to their nylon bottom housings.
Although the top and bottom housings of the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Splash Brothers are different, both contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While the specific qualities of each housing material may vary, users can expect a well-rounded sound experience from both switches.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Jwick Splash Brothers share similarities in terms of their housing materials. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer a sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile. Additionally, their nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's ability to absorb sound. Despite the differences in their housing materials, both switches deliver a well-balanced sound experience when typing and releasing keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Brown is 55 grams, while the actuation force of the Splash Brothers is unavailable, so it is unknown whether they are the same or not. However, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Brown is 63 grams, which is heavier than the 48 grams of the Splash Brothers.
Considering the weight of a switch, some individuals prefer a lighter force as it allows them to type for extended periods, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, others prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience and may opt for options with heavier forces. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would provide a slightly heavier typing experience with its bottom out force of 63 grams, whereas the Splash Brothers would offer a lighter touch with its 48-gram bottom out force.
While the actuation force of the Splash Brothers is unavailable, it is difficult to make a direct comparison regarding the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, if the actuation forces of the two switches were similar, it would likely result in similar results in terms of the typing experience. Ultimately, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the heavier option with its higher bottom out force, while the Splash Brothers offers a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, making it a more traditional option. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a decent amount of travel, providing a satisfactory tactile experience when typing or gaming. However, if you prefer a more shallow and responsive feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown with its shorter travel distance would be a better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more depth and a softer landing when pressing down on the keys, the Jwick Splash Brothers with its slightly longer travel distance may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 switch offers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback. The sound is not overpowering, but adds an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is described as having a creamy sound signature. This indicates a smooth and refined sound, which is pleasant to the ears. Both switches offer enjoyable sound profiles, although they have different qualities. Depending on your personal preference, you can achieve similar results with either switch by considering other factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is known for its easy-to-press nature. It offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is also described as having a mild and stepped feel. This means that it provides a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The keys have a subtle pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving it a unique feel. Similarly, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is also described as having a mild feel. It offers a safe middle-ground typing experience that is approachable to most users. Moreover, it is characterized by being snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. These qualities contribute to a lively and smooth typing experience.
Taking into account all the available information, it is clear that both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offer unique qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Brown switch provides a delightful and subtle tactile sensation with a medium-high pitch sound. It is easy to press and offers a mild and stepped feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch has a creamy sound signature and provides a mild and polished feel. It is characterized by being snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, it is important to consider other factors such as keyboard compatibility and keycap options to achieve the best overall results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium actuation force and a delightful tactile sensation without overpowering your typing flow, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is the switch for you. Its frosted light diffuser ensures that your RGB lighting shines brighter, creating an immersive visual experience. Additionally, the medium-high pitch of these switches provides a satisfying auditory feedback, enhancing your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force and a great typing feel, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is a perfect choice. With its shorter activation and long pole stem, these switches offer a smooth typing experience. Furthermore, its creamy sound signature adds a unique touch to your typing sessions. Consider your preference in actuation force and the desired typing feel when choosing between these two switches.
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