Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, two fantastic mechanical keyboard switches from Gateron's G Pro line-up. While both switches offer exceptional performance and value, they have unique characteristics that set them apart. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch, designed to deliver a smooth typing experience with its medium-light actuation force. It features a frosted light diffuser for brighter RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is also a linear switch but offers a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, providing lightning-fast responsiveness. It boasts vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for an exhilarating gaming 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver share similar housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits from both the G Pro 3.0 Red and Silver switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the two switches differ in material. The G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the bottom housing of both the G Pro 3.0 Red and Silver switches will contribute to a similar typing experience, producing a deeper and fuller sound when pressed.
When considering the overall sound profile of the switches, the difference in housing materials between the G Pro 3.0 Red and Silver becomes evident. The top housing, where the polycarbonate material is used, will have a more significant impact on the sound when a key is released. The inherent sharpness and higher pitch of the polycarbonate material will be more pronounced in the G Pro 3.0 Red and Silver switches. Alternatively, the bottom housing, made of nylon, will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed. The softness of the nylon material and its sound-absorbing properties will contribute to a deeper and fuller typing experience in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it can be seen that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams and the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke, as well as the force required to press the keys all the way down, both switches offer similar results.
Consideration of weight is crucial as it affects the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch might opt for either the G Pro 3.0 Red or the G Pro 3.0 Silver, as both switches have a relatively low actuation and bottom out force. A lighter switch enables one to type for extended periods without causing fatigue, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions.
However, some individuals prefer a heavier actuation and bottom out force to provide a more substantial typing experience. For these users, they may choose options with heavier forces. Unfortunately, the specific weight comparison between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the G Pro 3.0 Silver is unknown.
To summarize, while the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are equal, the weight of the switches is essential to consider based on individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide a light and effortless keystroke experience, making them suitable choices for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it becomes evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom will be identical in both cases. Therefore, regardless of whether one chooses the Red or Silver variant, they can expect similar results in terms of the tactile sensation experienced when using these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red for $2.77.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 Red switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This means it has a moderate sound level, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you're using it at home or in a work setting. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a bassier sound profile. The sound produced is characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch has a low-pitched thocky sound, which adds to the auditory experience of gaming sessions. It's important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch provides a creamy and mild typing experience. The switch offers a smooth and buttery sensation, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. This can be attributed to either factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch falls into a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users in terms of sound and feel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Similar to the G Pro 3.0 Red switch, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a creamy sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly melt into each keystroke. Both switches offer a polished and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer distinct qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch provides a moderate sound profile and a creamy typing experience, making it suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a bassier sound profile and a buttery typing experience, enhancing the gaming performance. Despite these differences, both switches offer smooth key travel and a satisfying auditory experience. If you're looking for similar qualities in terms of sound and feel, either switch will provide you with a smooth, refined, and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is the right choice for you. It features a medium-light actuation force and allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects with its frosted light diffuser. Additionally, it provides a medium-high pitch auditory experience, adding satisfaction to your typing sessions without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, if you are an avid gamer and prioritize lightning-fast responsiveness, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is the ideal option. With a shorter travel distance, these switches deliver exceptional gaming performance and give you a competitive advantage. The frosted light diffuser enhances the RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch sound adds an exhilarating element to your gaming sessions.
In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Red is described as neutral, making it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use it at home or work. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky, providing a more bass-heavy, mellow tone during key presses.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the G Pro 3.0 Red and G Pro 3.0 Silver depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize a smooth typing experience for work or a lightning-fast gaming performance, both switches offer exceptional value and quality.
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