Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly option from Gateron's G Pro lineup, designed to provide a smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch adds to the satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility, making it perfect for those who prefer a tactile typing feel. The two-staged spring design delivers a deep and resonating thock sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities and advantages. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. Therefore, users can expect a comparable experience in terms of sound and aesthetics when using these switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes nylon while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring employs polycarbonate. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing will create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will contribute to a sharper and more resonant sound, aligning with the characteristics of the top housing. Therefore, there will be a noticeable difference in the bottom-out sound and feel between these two switches.
In terms of impact on sound when releasing a key, the top housing will play a more significant role. Since both the G Pro 3.0 Red and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring feature polycarbonate top housing, the sound and feel when letting go of a key will be comparable. The stiffness of polycarbonate will contribute to a clear and resonant sound when the key is released, enhancing the overall user experience. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound when releasing keys on these switches, further emphasizing the similarities between the two models.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in weight. The G Pro 3.0 Red exhibits a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring possesses a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a relatively heavier bottom out force of 63 grams. Therefore, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a lighter typing experience compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch, which offers a more substantial push feel. These differences in weight cater to individual preferences, as some users may favor a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer a heavier force for a more satisfying typing experience. However, it is important to note that if a user desires a similar weight between the two switches, they would need to adjust their typing technique to achieve similar results, as the actuation and bottom out forces are not identical.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance sensation.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch provides a neutral and moderate sound profile. This means that it has a balanced sound which is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. The sound produced by this switch is sharp, crisp, and percussive, making it a great choice if you prefer a more distinct and brighter sound profile. However, it is 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. This switch is known for its smooth and buttery feel, thanks to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. Typing on this switch provides a silky sensation as your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys, resulting in a pleasant and refined typing experience. Moreover, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch falls into a safe middle-ground zone with its mild characteristics, making it approachable for most users.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is characterized as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. This means that it offers a high level of tactile feedback with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with every keystroke. Additionally, this switch is highly responsive, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs, providing a more lively typing experience. The bouncy nature of this switch also contributes to its spring-like and elastic feedback sensation, giving you a rebound when pressed. Lastly, the stepped characteristic of the switch means that it has a subtle pre-travel and/or post-travel, offering a unique typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch provides a moderate, neutral sound profile and a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, and offers a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped typing experience. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between these switches to achieve the desired sound and feel. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also impact the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch would be the optimal choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, it offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky feel, providing a buttery sensation as you glide your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The G Pro 3.0 Red also has a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is the ideal option. With a bottom out force of 63 grams, it offers a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel. You will experience a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress, providing a distinct feedback intensity. Additionally, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produces a clacky, high-pitched sound, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Both switches have their unique characteristics and excel in different areas. Consider your priorities in terms of feel and sound, and select the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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