Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice can significantly influence your typing experience and overall satisfaction. On one hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, a budget-friendly linear switch, stands out for its smooth operation and comfortable actuation force, making it an excellent option for typists and gamers alike who seek responsiveness without the strain. Its design accommodates vibrant RGB lighting effects, appealing to those who appreciate a visually engaging setup. Conversely, the Gateron Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, caters to users looking for an auditory delight, delivering a bright, clacky sound that enhances the charm of each keystroke, especially on Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. While the G Pro Red is all about a silky and neutral feel, the Magnetic Jade elevates the acoustics and tactile experience to new heights. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Magnetic Jade both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings. This shared material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributing to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature. Both switches take advantage of this translucency, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting as the light can pass through effectively, enhancing the visual aesthetics of the keyboard. Given that their top housings are constructed from the same material, users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on both switches, especially during key releases.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Magnetic Jade are made from nylon, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The inherent softness of nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when the keys bottom out. This complementary relationship between the softer bottom housing and the stiffer top housing allows for a well-rounded performance, with the nylon base contributing to a smoother typing experience while maintaining a satisfying acoustic quality.
Overall, the combination of shared polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both switches creates a cohesive profile where each material brings its unique qualities to the typing experience. With the top housing enhancing the clarity and light transmission for RGB setups and the bottom housing providing a deeper sound and tactile feel, users will find that both switches deliver similarly satisfying results in terms of sound and feedback. Consequently, while there are distinct differences in how each material impacts sound and feel, the synergy between the components allows for comparable typing experiences across both models.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, some notable differences emerge. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, while the Magnetic Jade is lighter at 30 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, the bottom out forces tell a different story; the G Pro 3.0 Red reaches a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Magnetic Jade's bottom out force is slightly heavier at 55 grams. This means that while the Magnetic Jade offers a lighter actuation for quick keystrokes, it requires a bit more effort when fully pressed down. For those who prefer a lighter switch for extended use, the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the better choice. In contrast, users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might find the heavier bottom out of the G Pro 3.0 Red more appealing, despite its slightly higher actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch differ in their travel distances, with the G Pro 3.0 Red measuring 4 mm and the Magnetic Jade at 3.5 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Red the longer switch, providing a more pronounced travel experience that some users may prefer for its depth and tactile feedback. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Magnetic Jade can appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate actuation. While both switches offer unique benefits, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference—those who favor a heavier keystroke may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red, while those who prioritize speed could find the Magnetic Jade more suitable.
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 Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch presents a neutral auditory profile. It operates with a moderate sound level, making it suitable for a variety of environments whether at home or in an office. This neutrality means that it won't stand out excessively, allowing for an unobtrusive typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch stands out with its bright and clacky sound, designed for those who desire a more pronounced auditory response while typing. This distinction in sound character makes the Magnetic Jade more suitable for users looking for an engaging and lively auditory experience, while the G Pro Red caters to those who prefer a subtler approach.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switches are celebrated for their creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing sensations. They provide a smooth and buttery experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. The various descriptors highlight a typing experience that is gentle and refined, making it approachable for users of all typing skills. On the other hand, the feel of the Magnetic Jade switches is not specified, leaving it an unknown factor. However, users of the Magnetic Jade can expect a different typing and tactile experience due to its distinct design, aimed at enhancing the overall performance of a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red excels in delivering a smooth and versatile typing experience paired with a neutral sound, the Gateron Magnetic Jade provides a lively auditory profile that may appeal to those seeking a more pronounced acoustic interaction. The feel of the Magnetic Jade remains uncertain, but the distinctive qualities of the G Pro 3.0 Red are well-defined. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a subtle auditory experience with a silky touch or a more engaging sound profile, whose tactile qualities remain unknown.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch will largely depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth, creamy typing experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the G Pro 3.0 Red is a fantastic choice. This switch is perfect for general use, whether you are a beginner or an experienced typist, making it versatile for both work and casual settings. On the other hand, if you are seeking a superior typing experience enriched by a bright and clacky sound—ideal for enhancing acoustics during gameplay or high-intensity typing sessions—the Magnetic Jade would be your go-to option. With a slightly heavier actuation force and distinctive auditory profile, this switch is designed to elevate your overall keyboard experience, particularly if you are interested in a more specialized, premium feel. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, sound preferences, and the specific gaming or working environment you find yourself in.
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