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Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown

An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Dustproof Brown present two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer fluid keystrokes and minimal resistance when typing. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects, appealing to gamers and enthusiasts who value aesthetics alongside performance. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is a tactile option, which is typically favored by typists looking for feedback with each keystroke. Although the details about its characteristics are less defined, tactile switches generally provide a noticeable bump to signal actuation, enhancing typing precision. Choosing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red may be ideal for users who seek a quiet and consistent typing experience, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown attracts those who prefer tactile key feel for a more engaged typing experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

45g

Actuation force

45g

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

Polycarbonate

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 Dustproof Brown switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes significantly to the auditory experience during typing. Polycarbonate is well-regarded for its ability to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the material's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when the switches are activated. Additionally, both switches possess a translucent quality, making them ideal for configurations that incorporate RGB lighting. The commonality in their top housing means users can expect a similarly appealing sound when the keys are pressed, allowing for an enjoyable acoustical experience regardless of the switch brand.

On the other hand, the bottom housing of the two switches presents a stark contrast in sound profiles due to their shared choice of nylon. This classic housing material is softer compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The nylon’s innate ability to absorb sound means that the bottom-out sound—which occurs when the key is fully pressed down—is likely to feel rounder and more subdued in both switches. This shared characteristic allows users of both switches to experience a consistent sensation of a cushioned bottom-out feedback, reinforcing a comfortable typing experience. Thus, even though the top and bottom housings differ in material, they both contribute to unique auditory textures while maintaining certain sound-related qualities.

In summary, while both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Dustproof Brown switches employ the same polycarbonate for the top housing, they achieve a crisp, high-pitched sound profile which suits gamers or typists looking for responsiveness. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing in both switches unites them with a shared attribute of producing a deeper, rounder sound profile upon key engagement. Even with their distinct top and bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Dustproof Brown effectively complement each other, allowing users to benefit from a harmonious balance between upper and lower auditory feedback during use.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, we find that the actuation forces are identical, both requiring 45 grams to register a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly: the G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Dustproof Brown exerts a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that while both switches offer the same light touch upon actuation, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a more forgiving feel when fully pressed down, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the heavier bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Brown may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Overall, if you prioritize a lighter switch for prolonged use, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is the better choice, while those seeking a firmer resistance should opt for the Outemu Dustproof Brown.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on either switch, you'll experience the same distance of key travel, providing a consistent feel across both types. As a result, if you switch between these two switches, you can expect a similar tactile response and performance, making them interchangeable in terms of 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 Outemu Dustproof 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

When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch delivers a neutral tone, characterized by a moderate actuation force requirement along with a balanced sound profile. This makes it versatile enough for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch lacks specific sound characteristics, but generally, tactile switches can produce a distinct thock when bottoming out, which can enhance the typing experience. However, since the Dustproof Brown's sound profile isn’t detailed, it’s difficult to draw a direct comparison.

In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red is known for its creamy, mild, polished, and silky characteristics. This results in a supremely smooth and refined typing experience, where the keys glide effortlessly under your fingers, aided by either factory lubrication or high-quality materials. This combination makes the keys feel luxurious and minimizes resistance during typing. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch's feel is not described in detail. Generally, tactile switches provide a noticeable bump at the actuation point, creating a different typing experience that some users may find more satisfying, but specifics for the Dustproof Brown are currently unknown.

In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offers a well-rounded auditory experience and an exceptionally smooth typing feel, making it a solid choice for users who enjoy a refined and responsive keyboard. The Outemu Dustproof Brown switch remains a bit of an enigma in terms of sound and feel, with no clear descriptors to assess its subjective qualities. Therefore, if you are deciding between these two switches, the G Pro 3.0 Red seems to stand out, offering clear advantages in both auditory and tactile experiences, while information on the Outemu Dustproof Brown leaves it open-ended for exploration.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the type of tasks you frequently engage in. If you value a smooth, buttery-feel and light actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent option, especially for gaming and fast-paced typing, where responsiveness is key. Its neutral sound profile makes it versatile enough for use in shared spaces, and its frosted diffuser enhances your keyboard's RGB lighting for a stunning aesthetic. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback with each keystroke, the Outemu Dustproof Brown is ideal, offering a medium-heavy resistance that can enhance your typing accuracy and provide satisfying feedback without being overly noisy. This switch is typically favored for typing-intensive tasks and provides a more pronounced tactile bump, which can be beneficial for those who enjoy a more engaged typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize smoothness and responsiveness or tactile feedback and precision in your typing.

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