Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch known for its smooth typing experience, medium-light actuation force, and vibrant RGB lighting effects, making it a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on performance. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw stands out with its unique material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, providing a creamy yet lightweight feel right out of the box. While the G Pro Red offers a more polished and silky typing experience, the Keygeek Raw's slightly textured feel may appeal to enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend in its top housing, offering a different sound profile exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. The choice between these materials will impact the sound and feel of typing on each switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Red incorporates a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switches feature a UMPE & Si blend in their bottom housing, providing a unique sound profile exclusive to these switches. The combination of materials in the bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of each key press.
While the top and bottom housings of the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches differ in material composition, they each play a crucial role in the overall sound profile and typing experience. The top housing materials, whether polycarbonate or a Nylon & UPE blend, contribute to the sound when pressing and releasing a key, while the bottom housing materials impact the bottom-out sound and feel of each key press. Depending on personal preferences for typing sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to achieve the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter in terms of force required. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw has a bottom out force of 57.5 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing feel compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. While the actuation force of the Keygeek Raw is not provided, it can be assumed to be higher than 45 grams based on the higher bottom out force. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Keygeek Raw. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Keygeek Raw. The 4.0mm distance is more traditional, while the 3.4mm distance is considered shallower. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Keygeek Raw a popular choice for gaming. However, those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red. Both switches offer different travel distances, catering to individual preferences for typing and gaming experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 sound, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Keygeek Raw switches fall under the neutral category, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments and user preferences. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels effortless and luxurious. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switch is noted for its textured feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a bit of friction when typing. Despite this difference, both switches offer a mild typing experience that is comfortable for most users.
Considering all the available information, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Keygeek Raw switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a creamy and polished typing experience with a medium-high pitch sound, the Keygeek Raw offers a textured feel out of the box and a blend of materials that set it apart. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and material composition. However, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, both switches are likely to deliver similar results in terms of overall performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch or the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, your decision may depend on your specific preferences. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a smooth typing experience and medium-light actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch made of unique materials for a delightful creamy feel and slightly textured typing experience, the Keygeek Raw could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer moderate sound profiles and can be suitable for various typing needs, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for feel, sound, and key features that align with your typing style.
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