Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Cream Pink present two attractive options for fans of linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 Red is celebrated for its balanced actuation force, offering a smooth and responsive typing experience that caters to both gamers and typists alike, while its frosted light diffuser enhances the vibrancy of RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to any setup. On the other hand, while the Outemu Cream Pink does not have specific standout features highlighted, it represents a budget-friendly option that may attract users seeking a straightforward linear switch experience. Both switches promise a creamy, mild tactile feel that facilitates long hours of typing or gaming with reduced finger fatigue. 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
50g
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Cream Pink switches exhibit different sound profiles and tactile responses largely due to their varying housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a top housing made from polycarbonate, which is known for its rigidity. This stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile when a key is released, resulting in a crisper auditory feedback. The translucency of the polycarbonate also enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Pink employs a nylon top housing, a material renowned for its softer characteristics. This softness absorbs sound, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's ability to mute sharp sounds creates a more rounded auditory experience, which contrasts sharply with the G Pro 3.0 Red's bright and resonant tones.
Both switches, nevertheless, share a commonality in their bottom housing composition, as both utilize nylon for this component. This shared material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when the switches are bottomed out, regardless of the differences in the top housing. The nylon bottom housing in both switches acts as a sound absorber, softening the auditory feedback upon key presses and contributing to a more muted bottom-out sound. Therefore, while the G Pro 3.0 Red may produce a brighter sound at the top of the keypress due to its polycarbonate top, the commonality of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that users will experience a rich, reinforced sound when the keys are fully depressed in both switches.
Ultimately, the combination of different top housings creates an interesting juxtaposition between two switches that might otherwise function similarly due to their shared bottom housing material. With the G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top yielding a clear and crisp release sound and the Cream Pink's nylon top producing a more subdued response, users can expect varied auditory experiences depending on which switch they choose. In essence, gamers and typists may find that their choice of switch affects their overall enjoyment of typing or gameplay, as the auditory feedback from those key releases can significantly impact the tactile experience. Thus, while the bottom housing provides a consistent depth to the sound profile, it's the interplay of materials in the top housing that ultimately distinguishes between the two.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Pink requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, catering to users who appreciate a more substantial and defined push feel while typing. This heavier force can offer a sense of satisfaction for those who prefer a more tactile experience. Consequently, while both switches allow for efficient typing, the G Pro 3.0 Red is the lighter option, ideal for prolonged periods of use, while the Cream Pink is the heavier choice, which may appeal to those who favor a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar feeling when pressing down on these keys. This equal travel distance results in comparable keystrokes, allowing for a consistent typing or gaming experience across both switch types. Since they share the same travel depth, users will likely notice little to no difference in the actuation experience or tactile feedback when using either switch, making them equally effective for those who prefer a linear switch with a smooth, uninterrupted press.
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 Outemu Cream Pink comes in at $3.10 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 switch exhibits a neutral auditory profile, providing a moderate level of sound that is suitable for various environments, whether at home or work. This balanced sound makes it appealing for users who may not want a switch that’s too loud or too quiet. In contrast, there is no documented information available on the sound characteristics of the Outemu Cream Pink switch, leaving an unknown dimension for users who might be considering either switch.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switches offer a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. The creamy quality ensures a smooth and buttery keystroke, making it a pleasure for those who prioritize a frictionless typing surface. The mild nature of the switch provides a gentle engagement that is approachable for all skill levels, while the polished finish further enhances the smoothness, reducing resistance during operation. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Cream Pink switch is unspecified, which makes it difficult to draw a direct comparison and assess whether it can match the refined experience that the G Pro 3.0 Red provides.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch stands out for its balanced sound profile and exceptionally smooth feel, making it a strong contender for budget-friendly mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The absence of specific information regarding the Outemu Cream Pink switch in both sound and feel means that users may not have a sufficient basis for comparison. If you are leaning toward a switch that delivers a satisfying auditory and tactile experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red is a reliable choice, while the Cream Pink remains an unknown variable in this comparison.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, your specific typing preferences and intended usage scenarios will guide your choice. If you’re a newcomer looking for an affordable, light, and smooth typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent option. Its lower actuation force of 50 grams allows for swift key presses, making it well-suited for users who favor speed over resistance, such as gamers or frequent typists. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel with a greater tactile heft, the Outemu Cream Pink switch with its 65 grams of bottom-out force may be more suitable for you. This switch can provide a more deliberate typing experience, which some users find preferable for extended writing sessions or when a more pronounced feedback is desired. Additionally, if sound is a concern, the G Pro 3.0 Red's neutral acoustics make it versatile for both work and home environments, while the Cream Pink, lacking a specified audio characteristic, might be less predictable in that regard. Ultimately, your comfort and typing style should be the deciding factors in your choice between these two well-regarded linear switches.
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