Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, you may come across the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch that offers a smooth and responsive typing experience with a medium-light actuation force. It is budget-friendly and features a frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects, along with a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf is a tactile switch, though less information is available about its specific features. While the G Pro 3.0 Red is known for its creamy, mild, neutral, polished, and silky characteristics, the Maple Leaf's unique characteristics remain undisclosed. Both switches have their advantages, but before making a decision, it's important to delve deeper into their specific qualities to determine which one suits your needs best.
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
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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 Maple Leaf, the key difference lies in their top housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This is especially ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a more resonant and clear sound compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon used in the Maple Leaf.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Maple Leaf utilize nylon for this component. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as the softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound. Despite both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, the impact of this material is more noticeable when bottoming out a key. The differences between the two switches become more apparent in the top housing, where the G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top housing provides a crisper sound upon key release, while the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing contributes to a rounder sound profile.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Maple Leaf share nylon bottom housings, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and resonant sound, particularly beneficial for showcasing RGB lighting. Conversely, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, with a rounder quality due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. Despite these differences, both switches demonstrate the unique impact that housing materials can have on sound profiles, showcasing how material choice plays a significant role in the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch have noticeable 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, providing a relatively light typing experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing sensation. Those who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 Red for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a more responsive and solid keystroke may opt for the Maple Leaf switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch comes in at 3.3 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly longer travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press sensation. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer their own unique feel, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize depth or speed in your typing experience.
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 Maple Leaf 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, providing a moderate auditory experience suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unavailable. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is praised for its creamy and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel that enhances the overall typing comfort. Additionally, the mild characteristic of the switch ensures a gentle and approachable typing experience suitable for most users. Conversely, information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is not available.
Considering the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offers a balanced combination of a moderate sound profile and a smooth, polished feel that provides a satisfying typing experience. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch remain unknown, it is likely that users can expect a similar level of comfort and performance based on the characteristics of other tactile switches in the market. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles, allowing users to elevate their typing experience based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a smooth typing experience with medium-light actuation force, then the G Pro 3.0 Red is the way to go. Additionally, if you enjoy brighter RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience with a medium-high pitch, the G Pro 3.0 Red is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a tactile typing experience, you may want to opt for the Outemu Maple Leaf switch. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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