Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Kailh BCP

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Kailh BCP can significantly influence your typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly linear switch that excels in delivering a smooth and responsive typing feel with its medium-light actuation force, making it an excellent option for users who appreciate a balance between performance and comfort. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination, while the satisfying auditory feedback appeals to those who enjoy a mild sound profile. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switches offer a unique tactile experience characterized by their creamy, elastic, and bouncy feel. These switches are celebrated for their signature poppy and clacky sound, providing a more dynamic and engaging typing experience, though they may not be as budget-conscious as the G Pro 3.0 Red. Both switches have their merits depending on your typing style and preferences, whether you prioritize a smooth, visually striking experience or a lively and tactile interaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

Kailh BCP Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

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Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Kailh BCP switches, it is evident that they diverge in the composition of their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 Red employs a polycarbonate top housing, noted for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely attributed to polycarbonate's rigidity, which enhances sound clarity and resonance, making it an excellent choice for RGB setups due to its translucency. In contrast, the Kailh BCP features a nylon top housing that delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon dampens sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a noticeably rounder auditory experience. Therefore, the differing materials lead to distinct sound characteristics—while the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a brighter tone, the BCP provides a muted richness.

A more interesting comparison can be drawn in their bottom housings, as both switches utilize nylon in this part. This shared material means both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Kailh BCP will produce a similar sound signature when the key is bottomed out. The nylon construction in the bottom housing contributes to that deeper and fuller sound, which is characteristic of switches that employ nylon. Given that nylon absorbs sound better than its stiffer counterparts, users can expect a consistent auditory profile—the result being a rounder and more pleasing sound when keys are fully pressed down. This shared material helps emphasize the characteristics of the bottom-out sound across both switch models.

In summary, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Kailh BCP switches exhibit different sound profiles due to the variation in their top housing materials, they converge in their bottom housing composition, both employing nylon. This blend of housing materials illustrates the importance of the top and bottom distinctions in enhancing user experience—where the G Pro 3.0 Red excels in a more vibrant sound when releasing keys while the Kailh BCP achieves a smoother and more rounded auditory cue during bottoming out. Consequently, users can select between the two models based on their preference for sound, knowing that both options provide a refined tactile and auditory interaction owing to their thoughtful material compositions.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, there is a clear distinction in both actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially beneficial for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch features a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, appealing to users who favor a more substantial push feel while typing. This difference indicates that the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter and designed for a softer tactile experience, whereas the Kailh BCP provides a firmer response. Consequently, users seeking a more comfortable typing experience over extended periods would likely gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 Red, while those in need of a stronger push should consider the Kailh BCP.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh BCP has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Red the longer option, providing a deeper key press that some users might find more satisfying, especially for typing or casual use. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP's shorter 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, offering a more immediate feedback that can enhance gameplay efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference, with the G Pro 3.0 Red favoring a more traditional feel, whereas the Kailh BCP caters to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch presents a neutral auditory profile, characterized by a moderate actuation force requirement and a sound that is smooth yet expressive, making it suitable for various environments, whether it be at home or in a professional setting. The moderate pitch enhances the overall typing experience, ensuring that it remains pleasant without being overly disruptive. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP switch offers a distinctly poppy and clacky sound profile, enhancing the tactile feedback while typing. This unique auditory experience can be especially appealing for users who enjoy a bit more character in their keystrokes. Ultimately, while the G Pro 3.0 Red maintains a balanced sound signature, the BCP provides a more pronounced and lively acoustic output.

Examining the feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is noted for its creamy, silky, and polished characteristics, leading to an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This creates a typing sensation akin to gliding, where each keystroke feels effortless and refined; the factory lubrication and specific materials contribute to a notable reduction in friction. In contrast, the feel of the Kailh BCP switch remains unspecified, leaving a gap in understanding its tactile impressions. However, given the strong description of the G Pro 3.0 Red, it’s clear that it delivers an enjoyable and responsive typing experience that would likely appeal to many users regardless of their preferences.

In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch combines a neutral sound profile with a rich, creamy, and smooth typing feel that caters to a broad range of users and applications. Its polished nature ensures a refined experience tailored for those who appreciate responsiveness without sacrificing comfort in the typing experience. Meanwhile, the Kailh BCP’s signature clacky sound offers a more vibrant audio experience while its feel is less defined, showcasing the potential for variances between switches that could appeal to those who enjoy distinctive auditory sensations. Choosing between these switches ultimately boils down to personal preference: if sound is your priority, the BCP might be the way to go, while the G Pro 3.0 Red could be advantageous for a more balanced typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Kailh BCP linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage environment. If you prefer a lighter touch and crave a smooth, creamy, and polished typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red is likely your best option. Its 50-gram actuation force makes it ideal for long typing sessions or gamers looking for rapid key presses, all while delivering bright RGB effects and a neutral sound profile that suits both casual and professional settings. On the other hand, if you like a more tactile feedback with a medium-heavy actuation force of 63.5 grams, the Kailh BCP switch could be the right fit for you. It provides a unique bouncy feel coupled with a poppy, clacky sound that many find satisfying, making it a great choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback or are focused on a lively typing experience. Ultimately, consider whether you value a lighter and smoother touch or a more robust and textured feel, as this will significantly influence your satisfaction with either switch.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more

Kailh BCP Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn more