Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Ocean. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch known for its smooth typing experience and medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. It offers brighter RGB lighting effects with its frosted light diffuser and provides a satisfying auditory experience with its medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch with no specific standout features mentioned. While the G Pro Red is budget-friendly and offers a polished and creamy typing experience, the Ocean's qualities are relatively unknown. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Ocean, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, allowing for clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in materials between the top and bottom housings contributes to the overall sound and feel of each switch when typing.
While both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Ocean share similar materials for their top and bottom housings, the distinction lies in how these materials impact the typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top housing leads to a sharp and crisp sound when pressing down on a key, while the nylon bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the sound produced. In contrast, the Ocean's polycarbonate top housing offers a similar sound profile during keystrokes, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall sound and feel when typing. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and aesthetics, making them appealing options for keyboard enthusiasts.
In considering the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Ocean, it becomes apparent that the choice of materials can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a distinct sound profile that is further enhanced by the softer nylon bottom housing. In comparison, both switches incorporate similar materials for their housings, resulting in a consistent typing experience across the board. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of these switches, catering to different preferences in terms of sound quality and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch. The G Pro 3.0 Red requires 45 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a more gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, but the bottom out force is not specified. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red, while those seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Outemu Ocean switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that users will experience a similar feel when pressing down on either switch, providing a consistent typing experience. Both switches offer a moderate travel distance that is neither too short nor too long, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Overall, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance when using either the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red or the Outemu Ocean 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 Ocean 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 offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. This switch provides a satisfying auditory experience with a medium-high pitch that complements its smooth typing performance. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the two switches in this aspect. It is worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is described as offering a creamy and polished typing experience, thanks to lubricants applied at the factory and smooth key travel. This results in a silky sensation when typing on these switches, providing a luxurious and effortless keystroke experience. In contrast, details about the feel of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch are not provided, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in terms of typing feel between the two switches.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch stands out for its balanced combination of smooth typing performance, medium-light actuation force, and satisfying auditory experience. While the specific characteristics of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch remain unknown, both switches are likely to provide a reliable and pleasant typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can expect similar results in terms of performance with either switch choice. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a light bottom out force and smooth typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be a great choice for you. The G Pro Red offers a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, along with vibrant RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a different feel and sound profile, the Outemu Ocean switch may be worth considering. Ultimately, the decision between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Ocean switch will depend on your personal preference for switch characteristics and typing experience.
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