Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black, both linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 Red is lauded for its budget-friendly nature and smooth typing experience, with a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Furthermore, its frosted light diffuser allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black's key characteristics are not explicitly outlined. While the G Pro 3.0 Red promises a creamy, mild, neutral, polished, and silky typing experience, the Dustproof Black's qualities are left to be discovered. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Red seems to offer a compelling mix of performance and affordability. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
The main difference between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black lies in their housing materials. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Red stands out with its nylon bottom housing. This nylon material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dustproof Black's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users who prefer a more pronounced and resonant typing experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red for its unique combination of housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches offer a clear housing due to the polycarbonate material used in their top housing. This translucency makes them especially ideal for users who plan to use RGB lighting, as the clear housing allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through. While the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Dustproof Black share this feature, their differing bottom housing materials give them distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red, with its nylon bottom housing, provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Dustproof Black, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, offers a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those seeking a softer typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows users to experience a blend of characteristics when using these switches. Whether you prioritize a sharper, crisper sound profile with the G Pro 3.0 Red or a softer, more absorbent sound profile with the Dustproof Black, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles. It's important to consider how each housing material influences the overall typing experience to find the switch that best suits your preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter in terms of weight. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch is heavier, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a smooth linear action, but the G Pro 3.0 Red is better suited for users looking for a lighter typing experience, while the Outemu Dustproof Black is ideal for those who prefer a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and pressure sensitivity.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down a key on either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance before the key actuates. This similarity in travel distance can result in a consistent typing experience across both switches. It is worth noting that having a shorter travel distance can lead to quicker key presses, while a longer travel distance can provide a more tactile feedback. In this case, both switches offer the same travel distance, providing a balanced typing experience for users.
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 Dustproof Black 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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches offer different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch is known for its medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory experience, while being described as having a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Black switch is not available. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as offering a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and refined feel during keystrokes. Unfortunately, there is no information provided on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Black switch. Overall, if the typing experience is similar between the two switches, users can expect comparable results in terms of both sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches will depend on individual preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, consider your preferred typing experience. If you value a light actuation force and a smooth, creamy typing feel with a balanced sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a different typing feel, you may lean towards the Dustproof Black switch. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Experimenting with both switches or seeking out reviews from experienced users can help you make an informed choice.
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