Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple

Overview

Introducing two mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, each offering a unique typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use with its medium-light actuation force. Not only does it provide a smooth typing experience, but it also enhances the aesthetics of your keyboard with its vibrant RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that guarantees an exhilarating typing experience thanks to its big tactile bump. With a snappy sound profile, it offers a satisfying auditory experience. While these general characteristics can help guide your decision, let's dive deeper into their specific qualities to determine the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both feature polycarbonate top housings. This means that they will have similar qualities when it comes to sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. So, if you are looking for a switch with a clear housing that produces a clear and resonant sound, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Polaris Purple would be good options.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, these two switches differ. The G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Purple has a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate used in the Polaris Purple's bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing material.

Overall, while the top housings of the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Polaris Purple are the same, their bottom housings are different. This means that the sound profile and overall typing experience may vary between the two switches. If you prioritize a deeper and fuller sound, the G Pro 3.0 Red with its nylon bottom housing would be a better choice. However, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing would be more suitable.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, we can see some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it relatively light. In comparison, the Polaris Purple's actuation force is listed as unknown, so we cannot determine its specific weight. However, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is slightly heavier than its actuation force. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple has a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy weight.

For those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods, the G Pro 3.0 Red with its lower actuation and bottom out forces would be a suitable choice. This lightness allows for comfortable and effortless keystrokes, reducing fatigue during prolonged use. In contrast, the Polaris Purple, with its higher bottom out force, provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience. The additional resistance may be preferred by users who seek a stronger push feel while typing, giving a sense of stability and precision.

While the specific actuation force of the Polaris Purple is unknown, it is evident that its bottom out force exceeds that of the G Pro 3.0 Red. Therefore, those desiring a heavier typing experience might find the Polaris Purple to be a suitable option. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it can be concluded that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the distance traveled by the switch from the top to the bottom will be identical. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and typing experience provided by both switches. Both switches offer a smooth keystroke with a travel distance of 4 mm, ensuring a consistent and comfortable typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple 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 various 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 other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a creamy, mild, and silky typing experience. The creamy aspect refers to the smooth and buttery sensation while typing, which can be attributed to lube applied in the switch at the factory or specific materials used. The mild characteristic indicates a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, suitable for most users. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Lastly, the switch provides a silky feel, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance.

On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch also offers a mild and polished typing experience. Similar to the G Pro 3.0 Red, the Polaris Purple switch provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. It also features a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Based on the information provided, both switches share similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. However, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers additional characteristics such as a creamy and silky feel, which can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer a smoother sensation. Overall, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience within their respective tactile and linear categories.

Conclusion

In summary, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a great choice. It provides a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users. The frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding a visual appeal to your keyboard. Additionally, the medium-high pitch of the G Pro Red switch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more exhilarating tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is the switch for you. Its big tactile bump adds a pronounced tactile feedback, and the sound profile is described as snappy. Though both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a creamy, mild, and silky typing experience, while the Polaris Purple offers a mild and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as your desired typing feel and sound experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more