Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Smoothie are two excellent options to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, making it responsive yet easy to use. Not only does it provide a satisfying auditory experience with its medium-high pitch, but it also allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects due to its frosted light diffuser. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is an all-POM switch that delivers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. It shatters the price barrier without compromising on quality, making it a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option. Both switches have their unique characteristics and benefits, 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Smoothie, it is clear that they each offer unique sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Smoothie's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound profile can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound when using mechanical keyboards.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Red's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic material. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing also provides a deep and muted sound, contributing to the overall typing experience. Despite the difference in materials between the top and bottom housing of each switch, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Smoothie offer a unique sound profile that cater to different preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Smoothie comes down to personal preference when it comes to sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound and a nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound, the Smoothie offers a POM top and bottom housing for a deep and muted sound. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles that are sure to satisfy mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is clear that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is the lighter option. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is slightly heavier compared to the Smoothie. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the bottom out force is unknown. Both switches provide a smooth keystroke experience; however, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a slightly firmer typing feel compared to the Smoothie due to the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with lighter switches being ideal for longer typing sessions and heavier switches for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Red offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Smoothie. The 4.0 mm travel distance on the G Pro 3.0 Red falls within the traditional range, while the 3.6 mm on the Smoothie is shallower. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance on the Smoothie for faster response times, while those seeking a deeper key press experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red. Overall, both switches offer slightly different travel distances, catering to individual preferences for responsiveness and key press depth.
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 Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 linear switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various types of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound with a subdued quality, producing a deep and satisfying typing experience. The G Pro Red delivers a medium-high pitch, providing a satisfying auditory experience, while the Smoothie switch excels in producing a rich and bass-heavy sound with a mellow tone. Factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the sound produced by these switches.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is known for its creamy, mild, and polished feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This switch provides a silky sensation, making keystrokes effortless and comfortable. Similarly, the Gateron Smoothie switch also offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, providing a seamless and uniform sensation while typing. Both switches focus on delivering a smooth and refined typing feel, enhancing the overall typing performance for users.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch may differ in sound and feel qualities, both switches aim to provide a premium typing experience without compromising on quality. The G Pro Red offers a smoother and more neutral sound with a creamy and polished feel, while the Smoothie switch delivers a thocky and low-pitched sound with a buttery and silky typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences in sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to elevate their typing performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a light bottom out force and a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, while also offering a brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effect with a medium-high pitch for auditory satisfaction, then the G Pro 3.0 Red would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch without compromising quality, then the Gateron Smoothie would be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
Mentioned in this article
