Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. Both switches offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series, provides an economical yet high-quality solution. With a gentle and subtle tactile sensation, this switch offers a delightful typing experience without disrupting your flow. The frosted light diffuser enhances the visual experience by illuminating your RGB lighting. Additionally, its medium-high pitch delivers satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches are designed to give your typing a touch of character with a thuddy and punchy sound profile. These switches strike a perfect balance, providing a pronounced tactility without overwhelming the user. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities, so you can determine which switch is the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetics, the G Pro 3.0 Brown and Viola Tricolor offer similar results with their polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches feature nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is primarily attributed to nylon's relatively softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Viola Tricolor offer a duller and rounder sound when typing. Thus, their nylon bottom housing contributes to a similar typing experience.
When it comes to the effects of the housing materials, different impacts can be felt depending on whether it's the top or the bottom housing. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, as it absorbs and contributes to the overall sound profile during keypresses. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown and Viola Tricolor share similar characteristics in their housing materials, the specific impact on sound may vary depending on the moment of keystroke interaction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the exact actuation force of the Viola Tricolor is unavailable. However, both switches can be categorized as having a medium actuation force.
Moving on to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 63 grams of force to fully press down on the switch, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor has a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. This allows for less strain on the fingers and wrists over time. In this case, the lighter option would be the G Pro 3.0 Brown due to its lower actuation force.
However, others appreciate a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may prefer options with heavier forces, and in this scenario, the Viola Tricolor with its slightly higher bottom out force would be a better choice.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switches have similar medium actuation forces. However, the Viola Tricolor has a slightly heavier bottom out force, making it a medium-heavy switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and whether a lighter or heavier force is desired.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have different travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Brown falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, providing a more familiar feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which is becoming more popular among gamers who seek faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Viola Tricolor would be a suitable choice. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel abrupt, lacking the depth they prefer. In such cases, the G Pro 3.0 Brown with its longer travel distance would be the better option. Overall, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is 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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 is best described as offering a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback. The sound adds an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches are known for delivering a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to your typing experience. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. They have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, the sound of the switches is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches are characterized as easy-to-press with a gentle resistance during key presses. They require minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. These switches enhance the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel. They are described as having a mild and safe middle-ground zone in terms of the typing experience. The Viola Tricolor switches, on the other hand, are described as accented switches that provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. They offer an invigorating typing sensation, with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. These switches have a moderate to firm actuation force, resulting in a reactive and immersive typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches excel in providing a delightful and subtle tactile sensation. They offer a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback and are easy to press, making typing effortless and comfortable. The Viola Tricolor switches, on the other hand, deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding character to the typing experience. They offer a pronounced tactility without overwhelming the user and provide an invigorating and reactive feel. Both switches have their unique sound and feel qualities, offering a satisfying typing experience. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switches would be a great choice. Meanwhile, if you prefer a switch with a deeper and bass-heavy sound profile, along with prominent tactility, the Viola Tricolor switches would be worth considering.
Conclusion
To sum up, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is a great choice if you are looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. These switches offer a gentle tactile sensation, providing a subtle bump that won't disrupt your typing flow. The frosted light diffuser enhances the RGB lighting, creating an immersive visual experience. The sound profile of the G Pro 3.0 Brown is characterized by a medium-high pitch that delivers satisfying auditory feedback. In terms of feel, these switches are easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable.
On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is perfect if you want a switch with a touch of character. These switches offer a pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, striking a perfect balance. The sound profile of the Viola Tricolor is described as bassy and low-pitched, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. In terms of feel, these switches are accented, offering a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They provide a snappy and reactive feel, creating an invigorating typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a more subtle and easy-to-press switch with a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is a great option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with more character, pronounced tactility, and a bassy low-pitched sound profile, the Viola Tricolor could be the perfect fit. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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