Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Kailh Plum. These switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, is best known for its budget-friendly nature and smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. This switch also boasts a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects. Additionally, its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, we have the Kailh Plum, a tactile switch. What sets the Plum apart is its unique heaviness without featuring a significant tactile bump, making it a standout option. This switch offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Kailh Plum, we find that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in a similar sharpened, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it beneficial for RGB lighting purposes. Therefore, users can expect a similar aesthetically pleasing and resonant sound experience from both switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Plum employ nylon. This choice of material enhances the typing experience by eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's relatively softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar immersive typing experience from both switches.
Despite these similarities, it is essential to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are distributed differently between the top and bottom of each switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, in this case, nylon, will be more noticeable, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing, made of polycarbonate, will have a more prominent effect on the sound when releasing a key. This differentiation in housing materials adds a nuanced variation to the overall typing experience for each switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Kailh Plum share similar characteristics in their housing materials, particularly with the use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. This leads to comparable results, such as a sharpened sound profile from the polycarbonate and a deeper sound profile from the nylon. However, the differing impact of the housing materials on pressing down and releasing keys provides a unique typing experience for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, we can see some noticeable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, meaning it requires a minimal amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch is unavailable, so we cannot directly compare it. However, it is worth noting that the Plum has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating that it requires more pressure to fully depress the key.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be a suitable choice, as its light actuation force allows for smooth and effortless keystrokes. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, if a user seeks a more substantial push feel and enjoys a stronger tactile feedback, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a better option with its heavier bottom out force. This additional force can provide a satisfying and satisfyingly substantial typing experience.
Ultimately, the lighter actuation force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the heavier bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch cater to different preferences. However, if the actuation force of the Plum switch is similar to or lighter than the G Pro 3.0 Red, users may still achieve comparable results in terms of typing endurance and comfort. Considering one's personal typing style and preferences is crucial when deciding between these switches, as weight plays a significant role in determining the overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have different travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Plum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Red's 4.0 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper key press sensation. On the other hand, the Plum's 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, which some gamers prefer for faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes, making it a popular choice among gamers. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feeling and a deeper key travel, the G Pro 3.0 Red with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the level of responsiveness desired.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Kailh Plum switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound. This makes both switches suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky. A creamy switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. The mild characteristic of the G Pro 3.0 Red means it provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The polished finish of the switch adds to the smooth typing experience by reducing friction and providing smooth key travel. Lastly, the silky characteristic enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch is described as mild and stepped. A mild switch also provides a gentle typing experience but without any further specific characteristics mentioned. The stepped characteristic indicates that the tactile bump on the Plum switch is not as pronounced as on other tactile switches. It has a more subtle feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Kailh Plum switches share some similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both have a neutral sound profile and provide a moderate typing experience. However, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers additional qualities such as a creamy, polished, and silky feel, making it a smoother and more refined choice. The Kailh Plum switch, on the other hand, has a mild and stepped feel, providing a more subtle tactile experience. Depending on personal preference, both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences, but the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the preferred choice for those looking for added smoothness and refinement.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be a great choice for you. It has a light bottom out force of 50 grams and features a frosted light diffuser that allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects. The G Pro 3.0 Red also has a medium-high pitch, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and a unique tactile feel without a significant bump, then the Kailh Plum switch would be a better fit. It offers a neutral sound profile and feels quite hefty, while still being enjoyable and suitable for most purposes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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