Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches: the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock Piano. The G Pro 3.0 Red, from Gateron's G Pro lineup, is a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth typing experience. It has a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. One standout feature is its frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects. Additionally, the G Pro Red produces a medium-high pitch, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out for its proprietary material blend, making it one of the most pleasant linear switches to type on. Users report a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature when using the Piano. It is categorized as bassy, frictionless, and silky, offering a different tactile experience compared to the G Pro Red. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock Piano differ in terms of their housing materials, but both offer unique sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound when typing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the clear housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red allows for RGB lighting, making it visually appealing. On the other hand, the Durock Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend top housing, which offers a satisfying and deep sound profile. While the exact details of this blend are unknown, it provides a unique auditory experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Red incorporates a nylon material. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, giving it a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Durock Piano features a proprietary POM blend bottom housing, which offers a similarly satisfying and deep sound profile. Although the specific details of this blend are unknown, it provides a unique auditory experience just like its top housing counterpart.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock Piano, their effects on the overall typing experience are distinct. When pressing down on the switches, the characteristics of the bottom housing become more evident. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys, shaping the overall typing experience. In contrast, the top housing has a more pronounced impact on the sound when releasing a key. By understanding these distinctions, one can choose the housing materials that align with their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Piano switch is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Red requires 50 grams, which is slightly heavier than its actuation force. In contrast, the Piano switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is significantly heavier and falls into the medium-heavy category.
Weight is an important factor to consider, as it can greatly impact typing experience and endurance. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be a suitable choice. It allows for longer typing sessions and is well-suited for situations where extended keyboard use is required, such as at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Piano switch with its heavier bottom out force would be a better option. This provides a more satisfying and tactile feedback while typing.
While the actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Piano switch may not be directly comparable due to the unavailability of the exact force for the Piano switch, it is clear that the bottom out force of the Piano switch is heavier than that of the G Pro 3.0 Red. This difference would likely result in a noticeably different typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Red offering a lighter option and the Piano switch providing a heavier and more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying typing experience, allowing for smooth and seamless keypresses. Whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red or the Durock Piano, you can expect similar results 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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 considered to have a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you use it at home or at work. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is described as having a bassy sound profile. This means that it offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a range of descriptors that paint the picture of a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. The switch is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky. These qualities combine to create a silky-smooth typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The Durock Piano switch, on the other hand, is described as frictionless and silky. These characteristics contribute to an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience that minimizes any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys.
Based on the available information, it is clear that both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Durock Piano linear switches provide subjective qualities that make them desirable for typing. While the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a neutral sound and a range of smooth and creamy feel descriptors, the Durock Piano excels in offering a bassy sound and frictionless, silky feel. Both switches are known for delivering an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience. However, it's important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as board and keycap choices when selecting the switch that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option compared to the Piano's 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy.
If you prioritize a budget-friendly option that delivers a smooth typing experience, with a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a suitable choice. It also offers brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory experience. The G Pro Red can elevate your typing performance without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, if you value a pleasant typing experience characterized by a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature, the Durock Piano is a great option. These switches are known for their proprietary material blend, which enhances the smoothness and sound profile during key presses. It offers a bassy sound and a feel that can be described as frictionless or silky.
Ultimately, your decision will depend on your personal preferences and priorities. If you prefer a lighter switch with a medium-light actuation force and a balanced sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is the way to go. However, if you prioritize a smoother feel with a deep, creamy sound and a medium-heavy actuation force, the Durock Piano is the better choice for you. Consider these factors when making your decision to ensure that you find the perfect keyboard switch for your needs.
Mentioned in this article
