Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Cherry MX Brown

Overview

Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch from Gateron's G Pro line-up, and the Cherry MX Brown, a tactile switch from Cherry. When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the decision often boils down to personal preference. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly option that delivers a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force. It features a frosted light diffuser for brighter RGB lighting effects and emits a satisfying medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the MX Brown switches offer a subtler typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. They are known for their textured feel, bassy sound, and low-pitched profile. Both switches have their merits, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Cherry MX Brown have contrasting housing materials for both their top and bottom housings. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic material contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, while its translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting. In comparison, the MX Brown's top housing is made of nylon, offering a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, users can expect a more pronounced and distinct sound experience from the G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top housing, while the MX Brown's nylon top housing delivers a smoother and muffled sound.

When it comes to the bottom housings, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the MX Brown share the same material, nylon. Nylon is known as a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, users can anticipate similar sound profiles when typing on both switches, as the nylon bottom housing in both cases contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel will be consistent between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the MX Brown.

Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Red and the MX Brown differ in their top housing materials, with the G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate providing a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness, while the MX Brown's nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound. However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, providing a similar sound experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a more distinct and resonant sound with the G Pro 3.0 Red or a smoother and muffled sound with the MX Brown.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. However, the bottom out force differs slightly. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the MX Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch would be a suitable choice. With its actuation and bottom out forces on the lighter side, this switch allows for comfortable typing over extended periods, making it ideal for office use or long gaming sessions.

On the other hand, the MX Brown switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel when typing. The additional force required for bottoming out may result in a satisfying feedback and precision while typing or gaming.

Overall, while the actuation force remains the same for both switches, the Cherry MX Brown surpasses the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red in terms of bottom out force, making it a slightly heavier option. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that when you press down on a key, you will experience a similar feeling with both switches. The G Pro 3.0 Red and the MX Brown provide a consistent travel distance, allowing for smooth and accurate keystrokes. So, whether you prefer the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red or the Cherry MX Brown, you can expect similar results in terms of the switch's travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as having a medium-high pitch, providing a satisfying auditory experience. It is considered a neutral switch with a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is characterized as having a bassy and low-pitched sound. It offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.

Moving on to the feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is known for offering a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. This switch provides a smooth and buttery feel, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Its refined finish and possible factory lubrication result in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is described as textured or scratchy. It has noticeable friction when pressed, offering a textured typing experience that some users may prefer, while others may prefer a smoother and friction-free feel.

In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Cherry MX Brown switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red offers a medium-high pitched sound and a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Brown provides a bassy and low-pitched sound with a textured typing feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with reduced friction, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a more textured typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the MX Brown switch would be a suitable choice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Cherry MX Brown switches have their unique qualities that make them suitable for different preferences and use cases. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch is an excellent choice for those who prioritize a smooth typing experience and brighter RGB lighting effects. With its medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch offers a more subtle typing experience with gentle tactility and lower-pitched, bass-heavy sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a more pronounced tactile feel and a sound that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones, the MX Brown is a great option for you. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Consider the G Pro 3.0 Red for a smoother and more vibrant experience, or opt for the MX Brown if you enjoy a more subtly textured and bassy typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$4.00 per 10

Learn more