Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock Ice King Linear mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches designed to provide a smooth typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red, known for being budget-friendly, offers a medium-light actuation force for a balance of responsiveness and ease of use. It also features a frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear boasts a full nylon construction and generous factory lube, ensuring a silky smooth typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Red is described as 'creamy', 'mild', and 'neutral', the Ice King Linear is categorized as 'silky', 'frictionless', and 'subdued'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable choices for different preferences. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock Ice King Linear, we can see that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, so users can expect a similar experience in this aspect when using either the G Pro 3.0 Red or the Ice King Linear.
However, where the switches differ is in their top housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the fuller sound produced by nylon. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Red ideal for those who prefer a more clear and resonant sound experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear utilizes a nylon top housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile that may appeal to users looking for a more muted and rounder sound. This contrast in sound profiles between the two switches can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock Ice King Linear will come down to personal sound and tactile preferences. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the use of polycarbonate in the G Pro 3.0 Red's top housing will result in a crisper and more resonant sound compared to the more muted sound produced by the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience based on individual preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch differ in their weight. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and light typing experience. In contrast, the Ice King Linear has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Red is ideal for those who prefer a lighter keystroke for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Ice King Linear is better suited for individuals who prefer a stronger push for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Ice King Linear has a shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. The difference may not be significant, but for those who prefer a slightly shallower key press, the Ice King Linear might be the better choice. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a bit more depth in its travel distance, which could be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Both switches offer a nice balance between responsiveness and tactile feedback, so regardless of which one you choose, you can expect a similar typing experience with slight variations in travel distance.
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 Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 considered to have a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is described as subdued, providing a dampened sound experience. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the G Pro Red being more neutral and the Ice King Linear being more subtle in sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other external factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is likened to a creamy typing experience, offering smooth and buttery key presses. It provides a mild and polished feel, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Additionally, it is described as silky, enhancing the overall smoothness of typing. Conversely, the Durock Ice King Linear switch also offers a silky and creamy feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. It is known for being frictionless and polished, ensuring effortless key presses and fluid travel. Both switches offer a similar smooth and refined feel, making them suitable for users looking for a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock Ice King Linear switches both offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The G Pro Red is known for its medium-light actuation force, neutral sound profile, and creamy typing experience, while the Ice King Linear boasts a silky smooth typing feel with a subdued sound signature. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to enhance their typing performance. It's important to consider other factors such as keycaps and keyboard design when selecting the ideal switch for a personalized typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a light bottom out force and a medium-high pitch sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be a great choice for you. It offers a smooth typing experience with a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a subdued sound profile, the Durock Ice King Linear switch would be more suitable for you. It provides a silky smooth typing experience due to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, offering a unique feel and sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches would depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and budget.
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