Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, making it responsive yet easy to use. It also features vibrant RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience, perfect for those who prioritize aesthetics and performance. On the other hand, the Mini i switches are ideal for office settings, providing gentle tactility and a muted sound profile for a quiet and professional typing experience. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different needs and 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Mini i, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing while the Mini i utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiff nature, ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Mini i produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, individuals may prefer one over the other based on personal preference for sound characteristics.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Mini i feature nylon material, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. This consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a cohesive typing experience with a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. While the bottom housing may not be as immediately noticeable during typing as the top housing, it still plays a significant role in overall sound and feel of the switches. This shared material choice highlights a commonality between the two switches, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile.
In considering the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to note how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing is more influential in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on sound when releasing a key. This nuanced understanding of the housing materials allows individuals to better appreciate the subtle differences in sound profile between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Mini i, highlighting how the choice of housing material can affect the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, we see that the G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Mini i's 40 grams. Both switches, however, have the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 Red will require a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke, the overall typing experience in terms of bottoming out will be the same for both switches. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Mini i for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier push of the G Pro 3.0 Red for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer compared to the Gateron Mini i tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have a significant impact on the typing or gaming experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red offers a slightly deeper travel, providing a more tactile feedback, while the Mini i offers a quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Mini i, while those who enjoy a more satisfying keystroke might lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red. In either case, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a similar level of quality performance but with subtle differences in feel.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate level of sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you are using the switches at home or in a work environment. 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.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is described as having a creamy feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This switch provides a silky sensation, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys with ease. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Mini i is also described as easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate the keys, making typing effortless and comfortable for extended periods.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a creamy and polished typing experience with a medium-high pitch sound, the Mini i offers a bouncy and easy-to-press feel with a fairly muted sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for, but rest assured that both switches deliver quality performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a smooth typing experience with a balanced actuation force and enjoy vibrant RGB lighting effects, the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a gentle tactility in each keystroke with a muted sound profile suitable for office environments, the Mini i tactile switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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