Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, two mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, is designed to provide a smooth typing experience with its medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. With a frosted light diffuser, it allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch adds to the satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch, offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. This makes it a highly approachable option for those seeking a tactile feedback while typing. Additionally, it boasts a deep and thocky sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. Thus, users can expect similar sound and visual experiences from both switches when it comes to their top housings.
However, the bottom housings of these switches differ in material. The G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic and its ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound experience, similar to its top housing. This difference in material in the bottom housings will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switches.
Overall, while the top housings offer a similar sound and aesthetic experience in both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, the bottom housings bring contrasting qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Red's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Depending on personal preference for sound profiles, users can select the switch that aligns with their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter in both aspects. The G Pro 3.0 Red requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Red requires 50 grams, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams.
For those who prefer a light and effortless typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be a suitable choice. With its lower actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a smoother and more effortless keystroke. This can be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or intense gaming sessions where fatigue may become a factor.
On the other hand, individuals who seek a more substantial and deliberate typing experience may opt for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch. With its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces, this switch offers a firmer and more pronounced tactile feedback. This can provide a satisfying and controlled typing experience, particularly for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer distinct qualities, with the G Pro 3.0 Red being lighter and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring being slightly heavier. However, individuals looking for a similar typing experience can expect comparable results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will experience the same amount of travel distance with both switches. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Red or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key.
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) Single 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) Single 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 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring have different characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Red is described as having a medium-high pitch, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. The switch is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation, possibly due to lubrication applied at the factory. It is also considered mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, it can be described as silky, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively feel and a rebound when pressed.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer different subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Red provides a medium-light actuation force, smooth typing experience, and a medium-high pitch sound profile. It is a budget-friendly option with vibrant RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a medium level of tactility, a lower actuation and bottom-out force, and a bouncy feel. However, the specific sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is unknown. It's important to consider personal preferences and intended usage when selecting between these switches.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a smooth typing experience and bright RGB lighting effects, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent choice. With its medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, we highly recommend the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. With its lower actuation and bottom-out force, it offers a very approachable tactility and a bouncy, spring-like feedback sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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