Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock Light Tactile. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch from Gateron's G Pro line-up, designed to provide a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force. It 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 Light Tactile is known for its gentle tactility, offering a welcome contrast to sharper tactile switches on the market. Typing on these switches provides an angelic tactility along with a jelly-like sound signature. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock Light Tactile share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it ideal for those who want to incorporate lighting effects into their keyboard.
On the other hand, the switches differ in their bottom housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Light Tactile also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the different housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will affect the sound when letting go of the key. Therefore, while the top and bottom housings may have slight differences, both switches ultimately provide similar acoustic experiences to the typist.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, it becomes evident that there are notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, meaning it requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Light Tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams, providing a bit more resistance before registering a keystroke.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Red requires 50 grams of force to fully press down the switch, resulting in a relatively consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, offering a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Considering weight as a factor, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Red is the lighter option, making it suitable for individuals who value extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions without experiencing fatigue. On the contrary, the Light Tactile switch is relatively heavier due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, making it more ideal for individuals who prefer a more robust typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch exhibit differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter in comparison, providing a softer touch and consistent typing experience, while the Light Tactile switch offers a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. When pressing down on a key, users will experience a similar feeling with both switches. Therefore, the travel distance is the same for both switches, ensuring consistent and familiar typing experiences.
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 Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Light Tactile switches are described as having a moderate sound profile with a neutral characteristic. This means that they do not produce overly loud or high-pitched noises, making them suitable for use in various settings, whether at home or in the workplace. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides a smooth and buttery sensation, with a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe and middle-ground zone. The switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Durock Light Tactile switch is also described as mild and polished, highlighting its gentle and approachable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a moderate sound profile and a mild, polished feel. This means that if you are seeking a pleasant and comfortable typing experience, either of these switches would be a suitable choice. It's important to keep in mind that individual preferences may vary, so it is always recommended to try out different switches before making a final decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be a great choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. Additionally, the G Pro Red switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch and appreciate a more gentle typing experience, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be the way to go. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium-heavy feel. This switch stands out for its super gentle tactility, which provides a welcome contrast to the sharper tactile switches on the market. Typing on these switches gives an angelic tactility along with a jelly-like sound signature. Like the G Pro 3.0 Red, the Light Tactile switch also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings.
Both switches have their unique qualities and cater to different preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a linear switch or a tactile switch, as well as the specific feel and sound you desire in a keyboard switch.
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