Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Dareu Snow both offer compelling features for different types of users. The G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, is praised for its budget-friendly nature and smooth typing experience. With medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, while also boasting vibrant RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch sets itself apart with its innovative use of POK material, providing a deeper sound signature and a smooth linear typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Red may be more suited for those looking for a balance of performance and affordability, the Snow switch appeals to users seeking a unique typing experience with a focus on sound quality. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Dareu Snow, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the POK top housing of the Snow contributes to smooth and clacky switches with exceptional durability. While both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, the G Pro 3.0 Red is more focused on creating a clear and resonant sound profile, whereas the Snow prioritizes smoothness and durability.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Dareu Snow feature a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The utilization of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience with a focus on producing a satisfying sound profile.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Dareu Snow share similar housing materials such as polycarbonate and nylon, they differ in their specific attributes and focus. The G Pro 3.0 Red emphasizes clarity and resonance in its sound profile with the polycarbonate top housing, while the Dareu Snow prioritizes smoothness and durability with the POK top housing. Similarly, both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile with the nylon bottom housing, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Red or the Dareu Snow, you can expect a quality typing experience with distinct characteristics based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Red is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Snow switch is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The G Pro 3.0 Red provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Dareu Snow offers a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches have similar actuation forces but differ in bottom out force, providing users with the option to choose based on their preference for typing intensity. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier force for their typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch have different travel distances, with the G Pro 3.0 Red having a travel distance of 4 mm and the Snow having a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly longer travel distance, making it more traditional in feel, while the Snow offers a shorter and more shallow travel distance. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Snow a popular choice for gaming. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the feel that suits each individual's typing or gaming style best.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 offers a neutral sound profile with a medium-high pitch, providing a satisfying auditory experience suitable for various typing intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch is characterized by a thocky sound signature due to its innovative use of POK material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deep and rich sound when typing. Both switches ensure a pleasant typing sound experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Red leaning towards a brighter tone while the Snow switch offers a deeper, bass-heavy sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch provides a creamy and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with polished key travel. This allows for effortless keystrokes and gliding fingers across the keys. In contrast, the Dareu Snow linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a lively feel and rebound when keys are pressed. While the G Pro 3.0 Red focuses on a silky and polished typing experience, the Snow switch offers a more dynamic and responsive feel with its bouncy feedback.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Dareu Snow linear switches, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Red excels in providing a neutral sound profile with a creamy and polished feel, ideal for those looking for a smooth and balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch stands out with its thocky sound signature and bouncy feel, offering a deeper and more dynamic typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with both options ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing session.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, you should opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red if you prefer a light bottom out force and a switch that provides a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force. The G Pro 3.0 Red is also a budget-friendly option that features bright RGB lighting effects and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a deeper sound signature, the Dareu Snow linear switch with POK material for both the top housing and stem may be the right choice for you. The Snow switch offers a thocky sound profile and a bouncy feel, providing a unique typing experience. Ultimately, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel when deciding between these two switches to find the one that best suits your typing needs.
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