Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, we can see distinct differences in their design and functionality. The G Pro 3.0 Red offers a budget-friendly option for those looking for a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. With its frosted light diffuser and medium-high pitch, this switch provides a bright and vibrant RGB lighting effect while offering a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch excels in providing a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, making it ideal for those seeking a satisfyingly silent switch. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between linear and tactile switches boils down to personal typing preferences and needs. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Silent Grey lies in their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a nylon bottom housing, eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
In terms of sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Red with its combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing offers a balance between sharpness and depth. The polycarbonate top housing contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound when a key is released, while the softer nylon bottom housing absorbs sound for a deeper typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey features a consistent sound profile throughout due to its polycarbonate top and bottom housing, offering uniform sharpness and depth. Both switches have their own unique sound characteristics, providing users with options to suit their preferences.
When considering the overall typing experience, the housing materials of the G Pro 3.0 Red and Outemu Silent Grey play a significant role. The tactile feedback and sound produced by these switches are influenced by the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing. While the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a blend of sharpness and depth with its dual housing materials, the Outemu Silent Grey provides a more consistent sound profile with its uniform polycarbonate housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter in both aspects. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the G Pro 3.0 Red make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations, such as in work or gaming settings. On the other hand, the heavier forces of the Outemu Silent Grey provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making their travel distances equal. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel before the switch actuates. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience, suitable for different preferences. Whether you prefer a linear switch like the G Pro 3.0 Red or a tactile switch like the Silent Grey, you can expect a similar travel distance that enhances your typing or gaming 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 Silent Grey 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 switch is known for its neutral profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. This makes it suitable for various typists, whether they are beginners or advanced users, and can be used in a variety of settings. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Grey switch is unknown, but it is designed to provide a quiet typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as having a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. These qualities indicate a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel, making typing effortless and satisfying. As for the Outemu Silent Grey switch, the specific qualities of its typing feel are not known but are likely to provide a tactile and satisfying keystroke without excessive noise.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the G Pro Red provides a balanced typing experience with moderate sound and a smooth feel, the Silent Grey focuses on offering a quiet and tactile typing experience. Depending on whether the user prefers a linear switch with medium actuation force or a silent tactile switch, both options provide quality performance that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider your preference for actuation force and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth typing experience with a balance of responsiveness and ease of use, the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a medium-heavy actuation force and a quiet, highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, the Outemu Silent Grey could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences.
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