Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Spring Breeze offer unique features catering to different preferences. 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 also boasts a frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience with its medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze is a clicky switch with no specific standout features mentioned. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option with smooth typing and customizable lighting effects, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red might be the ideal choice. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
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 Spring Breeze, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housing. Therefore, both switches are likely to provide a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced by their bottom housing material.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red stands out with its polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic compared to nylon, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is often used in switches with clear housings for its translucency, which is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze features a nylon top housing, which emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red is likely to provide a more resonant and clear sound compared to the nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze.
In terms of construction, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Spring Breeze showcase a difference in their top and bottom housing materials. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top housing gives it a unique edge in sound quality. The top housing material has a significant impact on the sound when pressing and releasing keys, and the stiffer polycarbonate material in the G Pro 3.0 Red is likely to result in a crisper and more resonant sound profile compared to the rounder and fuller sound produced by the nylon housing of the Spring Breeze.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, we can see some differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Spring Breeze's 40 grams, making it a bit lighter. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Red requires 50 grams, while the Spring Breeze needs 55 grams, making the Spring Breeze the heavier option. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience due to their linear actuation, but the slight variation in force may cater to different preferences. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might lean towards the Spring Breeze. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent 4 mm travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users can expect similar tactile feedback and key feel when typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches. Overall, the travel distance of both switches provides a standard typing experience for users, whether they prefer a linear or clicky switch.
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 Spring Breeze 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 is known for its neutral profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. This makes it versatile for various typing environments and user preferences. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is not available, but it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described with a variety of descriptors including creamy, mild, polished, and silky, all pointing towards a smooth and refined typing experience. The switch is known for its buttery feel, reduced friction, and overall smooth key travel, ensuring a pleasant typing sensation. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is not provided.
Considering the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offers a balance of smoothness, moderate sound, and ease of use, making it a budget-friendly option suitable for a wide range of users. In contrast, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch lacks specific details on sound and feel, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in these aspects. However, based on the qualities mentioned for the G Pro 3.0 Red, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with smooth key presses and moderate sound levels.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with a balance of responsiveness and ease of use, then the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the ideal choice for you. Its medium-light actuation force, frosted light diffuser, and medium-high pitch make for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a clicky typing experience, the Spring Breeze could be more suitable. However, keep in mind that the Spring Breeze does not have specific sound and feel descriptions provided, which might impact your decision-making process. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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