Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it's important to consider the key differences in their characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Red is praised for its budget-friendly price and smooth typing experience, thanks to its medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. This switch also offers bright RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience with its medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch provides a tactile feedback that appeals to those who prefer a more pronounced typing feel. While the G Pro Red focuses on a creamy and silky typing experience, the Crystal Brown switch offers a different feel with its tactile response. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Crystal Brown, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Crystal Brown differ in their bottom housing material, with the G Pro 3.0 Red featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Crystal Brown also has a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, making typing on switches with nylon housings a unique tactile experience.
While both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Crystal Brown share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their bottom housings can impact the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, adding a tactile feel to typing on this switch. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown also benefits from a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the overall sound quality of the switch. The split between the top and bottom housing materials provides a unique blend of qualities for each switch, resulting in distinct typing experiences for users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Crystal Brown will come down to personal preference and desired sound profile. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile ideal for RGB lighting. Additionally, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. Whether one prefers a sharper sound with a stiffer plastic like polycarbonate or a deeper sound with a softer plastic like nylon, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, we can see some key differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a softer typing experience overall. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown has the same actuation force of 45 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a slightly more substantial typing sensation. For those who prefer a lighter touch and smoother typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be the better option. However, for users who enjoy a bit more resistance and feedback while typing, the Outemu Crystal Brown might be the preferable choice. Both switches provide a similar actuation force, but the difference lies in the bottom out force, making the Crystal Brown slightly heavier than the G Pro 3.0 Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is 4mm. This means that both switches offer the same distance for users to experience when pressing down on a key. Consequently, users can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance with either switch. Both switches provide a consistent tactile experience despite the differences in their underlying mechanisms. Whether the user prefers a linear or tactile typing experience, they can rest assured that the travel distance remains constant at 4mm for both switches.
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 Crystal Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard platform and keycaps used.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a creamy and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction and effortless keystrokes. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch lacks specific descriptions on its typing feel characteristics. It is essential to note that the typing feel of a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience, influencing comfort and productivity.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch stands out for its budget-friendly yet responsive nature, offering a balance between actuation force and ease of use. With a frosted light diffuser and medium-high pitch, this switch provides a visually appealing and satisfying auditory experience. While the information on the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is limited, it is advisable to consider personal preferences in sound and feel when choosing the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results in terms of sound and feel based on subjective preferences and usage scenarios.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch or the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth typing experience with bright RGB lighting effects, then the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a tactile typing experience without additional features, then the Crystal Brown switch might be more suitable. Consider your typing needs and preferences when making your decision to ensure that you select the switch that best suits your requirements. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choose carefully based on what matters most to you.
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