Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Type L are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is a tactile switch that provides a gentle bump without being too overpowering, making it ideal for those who enjoy a subtle tactile sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke with a light touch, perfect for users who prefer a more feather-light typing experience. Both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, such as the G Pro 3.0 Brown's medium-high pitch for auditory feedback and the Type L's deeper sound signature. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Type L, one key difference lies in the material of their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. In contrast, the Type L features a nylon top housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone. While both materials have their unique sound characteristics, the choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference for either a sharper or a duller sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Type L utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics, providing a more satisfying typing experience. With the bottom housings playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the nylon material in both models contributes to a consistent and enjoyable typing experience. In this aspect, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound quality and overall typing feel.
When considering how the qualities of the housing materials are distributed between the top and bottom housings of a switch, it becomes apparent that the overall typing experience can be affected by the combination of these materials. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown features a mix of polycarbonate and nylon housing, with the top housing influencing the sound when letting go of a key and the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, the Type L maintains consistency with nylon for both top and bottom housings. This distinction may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two models, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown offering a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, while the Type L provides a more uniform, rounded tone throughout the typing process. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Type L is lighter in both aspects. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Type L more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be a better choice due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles, as weight plays a significant role in determining the typing experience. If both actuation and bottom out forces are the same in any future models, users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4 mm travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get a similar tactile and typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. In terms of travel distance, both switches provide a comparable typing feel and feedback, offering a consistent typing 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 Type L comes in at $4.70 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 is known for producing a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch is described as having a subdued sound profile, offering a more subtle sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Both switches offer different sound experiences, catering to varying preferences in keyboard sound aesthetics.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is often praised for its easy-to-press nature, 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, it offers a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch is described as feathery, requiring little exertion from your fingers and reducing strain on your fingers during typing. It also provides an easy-to-press feel, making typing comfortable for extended periods. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, catering to those who prefer varied levels of tactile feedback.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a medium-high pitch sound and an easy-to-press, mild typing experience, while the Type L offers a subdued sound profile and a feathery, easy-to-press feel. Choosing between these switches would depend on personal preference for sound, typing experience, and the overall tactile feedback desired during typing sessions. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance and can deliver a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your typing preferences and requirements. If you value a medium-bottom out force and enjoy a subtle tactile sensation with a medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a sound signature that elegantly veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, the Type L switch could be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal typing style and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.