Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth considering are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Quinn. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch known for its smooth typing experience and budget-friendly price point. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. It also boasts a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, and a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Quinn is a tactile switch offering a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. Its specially designed nylon housings contribute to the rich and immersive sound experienced with each keystroke. With a precise and clean tactile bump, the Quinn switch offers a touch of character to the typing experience. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Quinn differ in terms of their housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Quinn has a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Quinn's nylon top housing generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Quinn utilize nylon. Nylon is known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, in terms of sound profile, both switches will provide similar results in terms of their bottom-out sound and feel.
It's worth noting that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in determining the overall sound profile. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice between the G Pro 3.0 Red with its polycarbonate top housing and the Quinn with its nylon top housing will result in subtle differences in the sound produced while typing on the keyboard. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Red will deliver a sharper and more resonant sound, while the Quinn will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and press all the way down. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it more medium-heavy. This means that those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Quinn switch. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a lighter typing experience, while the Quinn switch provides a slightly heavier feel. However, if both switches are used with the same force applied, the results would be similar as they both require a similar amount of force to press all the way down.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that they have different distances. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance, while the Quinn has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. For those who value responsiveness, the Quinn would be the preferred choice due to its shorter travel distance. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Red with its longer travel distance for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired 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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is known for its medium-light actuation force and smooth typing experience. This switch offers a neutral sound profile, striking a balance between actuation force and sound. The medium-high pitch of the G Pro Red switch provides a satisfying auditory experience, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users. It also features a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch provides a budget-friendly option for those looking to elevate their typing performance without compromising on smoothness and sound quality.
In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. The Quinn switch features specially designed nylon housings that contribute to its immersive sound experience. With each keystroke, users are greeted with a rich and resonant sound that adds character to the typing experience. The Quinn switch also provides a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump, enhancing the overall feel of the switch. When typing on the Quinn switch, users can expect a bouncy and snappy feel, along with a low-pitched, clacky, and resonant sound profile.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red offers a neutral sound profile with a medium-high pitch, providing a satisfying auditory experience. Its creamy and polished feel ensures a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Quinn switch delivers a deep, resonant, and low-pitched sound profile with a clacky and resonant characteristic. Its snappy and bouncy feel adds to the overall tactile feedback.
While the G Pro 3.0 Red and Quinn switches have different subjective qualities, it is important to note that individual preferences play a crucial role in choosing the right switch. Some users may prefer the smoothness and neutral sound of the G Pro 3.0 Red, while others may enjoy the rich and immersive experience of the Quinn switch. Ultimately, it is advised to test these switches firsthand or rely on user reviews to determine which suits your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a budget-friendly option, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its medium-light actuation force and frosted light diffuser, this switch offers a balanced combination of responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, the medium-high pitch of the G Pro Red provides a satisfying auditory experience, enhancing your typing performance without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, if you prefer a unique tactile feel and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is the way to go. With its specially designed nylon housings, these switches offer a crisp, light switch-like tactility that adds character to your typing experience. The Quinn switches are described as "bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant" in terms of sound and "snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy" in terms of feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch depends on your preferences for typing experience. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feel to determine which switch aligns with your needs and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
