Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Oil King, two mechanical keyboard switches renowned for their linear design. The G Pro 3.0 Red, from Gateron's G Pro line-up, is a budget-friendly option that prioritizes a smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, these switches strike the perfect balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, we have the Oil King, a switch that captures our attention with its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a snapping dark chocolate bar. It offers a low-pitched and creamy feel, perfect for those who crave a more engaging and silky typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities and advantages. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Oil King differ in their housing materials, specifically in their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that provides a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the transparent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Oil King has a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile. While both materials have their own unique sound characteristics, they offer different experiences in terms of pitch and clarity.
In terms of bottom housings, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Oil King utilize nylon. This material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon, creating a satisfying typing experience. While the material is the same, the switches may still differ in other aspects, such as the shape and design of the bottom housing, which can influence the overall sound and feel of the switch.
When comparing the overall sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Oil King will provide different experiences due to their unique housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Red, with its polycarbonate top housing, will offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Oil King, with its nylon top housing, will provide a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in sound characteristics allow users to choose the switch that best suits their preferences, whether they prefer a more clear and resonant sound or a deeper and rounder sound. Despite these variations, both switches guarantee a high-quality sound experience thanks to the careful selection of their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Oil King's 55 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Red requires less force to trigger a keystroke, providing a smoother and more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the G Oil King has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Oil King switch requires more force to fully depress the key, resulting in a more substantial and satisfying typing experience. Overall, those looking for a lighter and more effortless typing experience may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Red, while those seeking a heavier and more tactile feel may opt for the Gateron Oil King.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance of travel for both switches. Thus, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile experience when using either of these switches. Neither one is shorter or longer than the other, as they both have the exact same travel distance.
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 Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, or if you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King switch is known for having a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. These switches provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, if you're looking for a switch with a neutral sound, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be a good choice. If you prefer a switch with a deeper and richer sound profile, similar to the snap of a dark chocolate bar, the Oil King switch would be a better option.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Oil King are described as creamy and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This smoothness is often achieved by applying lubricant at the factory or using specific materials. Typing on these switches provides a silky sensation, as if your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch is also described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Oil King switch is described as buttery and polished, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Both switches emphasize smoothness and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Overall, the feel of both switches is quite similar, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Gateron Oil King switches have different sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch is characterized by a neutral sound, while the Oil King switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound. However, both switches offer a creamy and silky typing feel, providing a smooth and buttery experience. If you prioritize sound, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be a suitable choice for a neutral sound. If you prioritize a deep and rich sound profile, similar to a dark chocolate bar snapping, the Oil King switch would be more appealing. Nevertheless, both switches are great options for those seeking a smooth and comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience while still being responsive and easy to use, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a great choice. 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. On the other hand, if you are seeking a switch that offers a buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, then the Gateron Oil King is the switch for you. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, it provides a medium-heavy typing experience. With its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, it offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Both switches offer a smooth and silky typing experience, but the G Pro 3.0 Red is described as having a more neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes, while the Oil King has a more low-pitched and bassy sound. Ultimately, the choice between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Oil King would depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience.
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