Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gateron Glory Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Glory Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the pros and cons of various options. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Gateron Glory Red are both linear switches that cater to different preferences, while sharing certain fundamental qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Red is known for its balance of responsiveness and ease of use, featuring a medium-light actuation force that caters well to those looking for an efficient typing experience without overspending. Moreover, its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, making it a vibrant choice for gamers and typists alike. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red excels with its lighter feel and satisfying travel distance, designed to offer a smooth keystroke that many users find pleasurable. Both switches deliver an enjoyable typing experience; however, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. 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
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
POK
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Glory Red switches, a clear distinction emerges in their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material lends a crisp and clear auditory experience, particularly when the switch is released, making it ideal for setups that emphasize RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Glory Red features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon results in a sound that is more rounded and absorbs vibrations, providing a mellower auditory feedback during typing. Thus, while the G Pro 3.0 Red emphasizes brightness and clarity, the Glory Red leans toward a warmer, smoother soundscape.
When examining the bottom housings, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and Glory Red employ nylon, an indication that they share one commonality in acoustic performance. The fact that both switches have a nylon bottom housing implies that they will produce similar deeper, fuller sounds upon bottoming out. Nylon's capacity to absorb sound means that users can expect a consistent auditory quality when pressed down on either switch, enriching the overall experience. Therefore, while the tactile feedback and sound profile may differ in nuance due to the materials used in the top housings, the bottom housing will anchor both switches in a similar sonic realm during key presses.
The juxtaposition of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Gateron Glory Red highlights how housing materials greatly influence the perceived sound and feel of keyboard switches. The unique top housing materials create distinct auditory experiences—sharp and clear from the polycarbonate of the G Pro 3.0 and rich and dull from the nylon of the Glory Red—while both switches share common ground with their nylon bottom housings. This design interplay serves to create a balanced typing experience; users who prioritize acoustic clarity might gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 Red, while those who prefer a more subdued sound will likely favor the Glory Red. Ultimately, understanding these material differences can help keyboard enthusiasts select the switch that best aligns with their preferences and typing style.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch both feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, which makes them relatively light options that are suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions without causing excessive strain. However, their bottom out forces present a notable difference; the G Pro 3.0 Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a slight resistance when fully pressed down, while the Glory Red lacks a specified bottom out force as it is unknown. This indicates that the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a more defined tactile experience when bottoming out, suggesting a more substantial push feel, which some users may prefer for feedback. In conclusion, while the actuation forces are equal and both switches are lighter, the G Pro 3.0 Red's known bottom out force of 50 grams introduces a heavier feel when fully pressed, contrasting with the Glory Red's unknown bottom out force that may lead to a more variable experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option when compared to the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a more substantial depth, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced feel when pressing down on keys. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Glory Red caters to gamers who favor quicker response times, as a 3.6 mm distance can enhance the speed of key presses. If you opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red, you'll enjoy a more robust typing experience, whereas the Glory Red is ideal for those seeking a more sensitive, rapid-response feel. Thus, your choice between these switches will largely depend on whether you value depth and feedback or speed and responsiveness.
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 Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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 the sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offers a neutral auditory experience. This means it features a moderate sound level that is suitable for both newcomers and seasoned users, making it versatile enough for various environments, whether at home or in the office. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the Gateron Glory Red are not provided, leaving it unclear how it would compare in terms of noise. However, generally, linear switches tend to be quieter than tactile or clicky options, so one could anticipate a reasonably muted sound from the Glory Red as well, though confirmation would be necessary.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is characterized by its creamy, mild, polished, and silky sensations. This multidimensional typing experience provides a smooth and buttery touch that enhances performance, enabling the keys to glide effortlessly under the fingers. This combination of qualities results in minimal resistance when actuating the switch, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The specifics of the feel for the Glory Red switch are unknown, meaning that potential users cannot accurately gauge how it might compare in terms of tactile feedback and overall experience.
Considering both switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is positioned as a strong option for those seeking a smooth and enjoyable typing experience with the added bonus of good sound characteristics. While the sound of the Glory Red remains a mystery, the smooth keystroke it promises suggests that it could also be a worthy contender for users prioritizing a pleasant feel. In essence, while you may find a comparable overall typing experience by choosing either switch, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers more specifics regarding its auditory and tactile sensations, making it an easier choice for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, when selecting between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Glory Red linear switches, consider your specific typing preferences and requirements. If you’re looking for a versatile, budget-friendly option that provides a balanced typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red is the way to go. Its creamy, polished feel and neutral sound profile make it suitable for both work and leisure, allowing you to enjoy smooth keystrokes without overwhelming auditory feedback. This switch, with a moderate 50-gram bottom-out force, is excellent for users who want a responsive and enjoyable typing experience without excessive strain. On the other hand, if you prioritize an exceptionally light and smooth keystroke and are drawn to the attributes that make your typing experience effortless, the Glory Red might be your preferred choice. While less information is available regarding its bottom-out force and sound profile, it is geared towards users who favor a softer touch and shorter travel distance. Ultimately, assess whether you want a balanced performer with some auditory character or lean towards an exceptionally light touch for a more delicate typing experience. Tailor your choice to align with your preferences, whether you favor tactile sensation or auditory response.