Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, and the Outemu Red Panda, a tactile switch. These two mechanical keyboard switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The G Pro 3.0 Red, from Gateron's G Pro line-up, is 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. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda, from Outemu, offers a light-medium amount of tactility along with a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Both switches have their own appeal and advantages, which makes choosing between them a matter of personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Red Panda feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of the polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it an excellent choice for those who want to incorporate lighting effects into their keyboard setup.
In terms of bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a different auditory experience compared to the polycarbonate top housing. The nylon material, being relatively softer, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This difference in the bottom housing material offers a contrasting experience from the top housing sound.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the qualities of the bottom housing material play a significant role. The impact and overall sound when bottoming out a key are influenced more by the nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, when letting go of a key, the sound will be affected by the properties of the polycarbonate top housing. This distinction highlights how the two housing materials work together to create a unique typing experience for each switch.
In summary, while both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Red Panda utilize polycarbonate top housings, providing similar sound profiles, their use of nylon bottom housings creates a noticeable difference in sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red produces a sharper and crisper sound when let go, while the Red Panda offers a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Ultimately, these variations in housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and allow users to choose the switch that matches their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Red Panda requires a slightly heavier 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. Both switches have a relatively light bottom out force, with the G Pro 3.0 Red at 50 grams and the Red Panda at 60 grams. So, in terms of actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter, while the Red Panda is slightly heavier. However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches provide a relatively similar experience. So, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red, while those seeking a slightly more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Red Panda.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is 3.3 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda.
A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered more traditional, while 3.3 mm is on the shallower side. However, it is worth noting that shorter travel distances have become more popular, particularly among gamers who seek faster response times. If you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the shorter 3.3 mm travel distance of the Red Panda may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to feel too abrupt, and may prefer the more substantial depth provided by the G Pro 3.0 Red's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing 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 Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the switch at home or work. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch is described as thocky, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Think of a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. 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.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as having several different qualities. It can be described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This is often due to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch. Typing on these switches feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys, with each keystroke melting into the switch. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. It falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of its characteristics. The switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Lastly, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as silky, meaning it provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
As for the Red Panda switch, it shares the same description as the G Pro 3.0 Red in terms of feel, being described as mild. This means that it offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of the Red Panda switch are approachable to most users, as its qualities all fall into a safe, middle-ground zone.
To summarize, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Red Panda switches have different sound profiles, with the G Pro 3.0 Red being described as neutral and the Red Panda being described as thocky. However, both switches have a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The G Pro 3.0 Red also has additional descriptors such as creamy, polished, and silky, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a deep and satisfying sound, the Red Panda may be the better choice. If you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the preferred option.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a smooth typing experience and responsive actuation, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent choice. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, it strikes a balance between ease of use and responsiveness. Additionally, the G Pro Red features a frosted light diffuser that allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing. The sound profile of the G Pro Red is described as neutral, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. The feel of the G Pro Red is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light-medium amount of tactility and a deep, rich sound when pressed, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a slightly heavier feel compared to the G Pro Red. The Red Panda also produces a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound, adding to the auditory experience. The feel of the Red Panda is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable and comfortable.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smooth linear switch with a lighter bottom out force and vibrant RGB lighting, the G Pro Red is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly heavier feel and a deep, satisfying sound, the Red Panda is a fantastic option. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and overall typing experience to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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