Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Ink Box Black, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly linear switch known for its smooth typing experience and medium-light actuation force. It strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making it ideal for those seeking a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch delivers a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is renowned for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel. With a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, it provides a distinct auditory experience. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', it offers a unique typing sensation. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Ink Box Black have different housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Ink Box Black has a proprietary INK blend top housing. Both materials offer distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. On the other hand, the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp. While they may have different characteristics, both materials offer a satisfying and clacky typing experience.
In terms of their bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a nylon material, while the Ink Box Black employs the proprietary INK blend. The nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic and sound-absorbing capabilities. Conversely, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black creates a thinner and higher-pitched sound, which is often described as clacky. Despite using different materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
When comparing the impacts of the top and bottom housing on the switches, it is clear that they play crucial roles in different aspects. The bottom housing largely affects the bottom-out sound and feel, with the Nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red contributing to a deeper and fuller sound upon pressing down. On the other hand, the top housing exerts its influence on the sound when you let go of a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, while the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black adds a satisfying clack to the typing experience. Overall, the different housing materials provide distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke with minimal effort. Additionally, it has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which means that it requires a slightly heavier press to fully depress the key.
On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Its bottom out force of 70 grams indicates that it requires a more significant push to fully depress the key.
So, while the actuation forces and bottom out forces of these two switches differ, they cater to different preferences and needs. The G Pro 3.0 Red offers a lighter touch, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing, which is ideal for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or gaming. On the contrary, the Ink Box Black switch provides a heavier push feel, appealing to individuals who prefer a more tactile and substantial typing experience.
In summary, if you prefer a lighter touch and want to type or game for extended periods, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch would be a suitable choice with its lower actuation and bottom out forces. If you desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial tactile experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, with its higher actuation and bottom out forces, would be the ideal option.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the most traditional distance. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This shorter distance is preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, opting for the Ink Box Black switch would be a good choice. However, for those who prefer a deeper feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch with its longer travel distance would be a better fit. Both switches offer different experiences, catering to individual preferences.
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 Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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
Starting with sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is considered to have a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound that is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using it at home or work. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black is described as clacky and high-pitched. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp, crisp, and percussive sound. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, the higher-pitched characteristic of these switches might be more to your liking. It's important to note that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches offer a silky typing experience. This means that they provide an exceptionally smooth feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of typing and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, which indicates that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel offered by these switches contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red is also described as creamy, offering a buttery typing experience, while the Ink Box Black is described as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Gateron Ink Box Black switches have some similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a silky and polished typing experience, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction. However, they differ in sound, with the G Pro 3.0 Red having a neutral sound profile, suitable for most purposes, and the Ink Box Black having a clacky, high-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and the type of typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches, there are a few factors to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Red, with its light bottom out force of 50 grams, is a great choice if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a medium-light actuation force. It is also known for its brighter RGB lighting effects and medium-high pitch, offering a satisfying auditory experience. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Red is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments.
On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams. If you enjoy a more pronounced sound and feel when typing, the Ink Box Black is a suitable option. With a clacky sound signature and high-pitched characteristics, it offers a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. The Ink Box Black is also described as having a silky and polished feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Ink Box Black will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, along with brighter RGB lighting effects, the G Pro 3.0 Red is a solid choice. However, if you prefer a more pronounced sound and feel, with a medium-heavy actuation force and a silky, polished typing experience, the Ink Box Black may be the better fit for you. Consider your typing style, preferences, and desired typing experience when making your decision.
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