Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches: the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Duck. While the G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch, the Duck offers a more subtle tactile typing experience. If you prefer a smooth and responsive typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red with its medium-light actuation force and frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you value a clean and crispy sound profile along with gentle tactility, the Duck switch is perfect for you. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch to enhance your typing performance.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Yes
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Duck both feature polycarbonate top housings, which have similar qualities. The use of polycarbonate in the housings of both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both top housings are translucent, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, there is a difference in materials. The G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Duck features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck contributes to the sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile associated with this material. Therefore, when pressing down on the switch, the G Pro 3.0 Red will provide a deeper sound and feel, while the Duck will offer a sharper and crisper experience.
When considering the overall sound experience of these switches, the split in qualities between the top and bottom housings becomes important. The bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, making it crucial for users who prioritize the typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more significant influence on the sound when releasing a key, adding to the auditory feedback. Therefore, depending on personal preferences for typing and overall sound aesthetics, users can choose between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Duck based on their desired balance between bottom-out and key release sounds.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it becomes evident that they have distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Red possesses a relatively lighter actuation force of 45 grams, allowing users to type effortlessly and for longer periods. In contrast, the actuation force of the Duck switch is not known. However, in terms of bottom out force, it outweighs the G Pro 3.0 Red with a measurement of 58 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing experience. For those who prioritize a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red is the preferable choice, whereas individuals seeking a firmer and more impactful keystroke may gravitate towards the SP-Star Duck switch. Nonetheless, if the actuation force of the Duck switch falls within a similar range as the G Pro 3.0 Red, users can expect comparable results in terms of ease of typing. Ultimately, one's preference for a lighter or heavier switch will dictate their selection between these two options.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches are equal in this regard, providing a consistent feel and response to your keystrokes. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Red or the Duck, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This means that they produce a balanced sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. 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.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red is described as offering a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. This means that typing on these switches will feel smooth, gentle, refined, and exceptionally smooth, respectively. The G Pro 3.0 Red switches provide a silky sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with each keystroke.
On the other hand, the Duck switches are described as offering a mild, buttery, and polished typing experience. This means that typing on these switches will feel gentle, smooth, and sleek, respectively. The Duck switches provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, resembling a buttery and fluid keystroke experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch share some similarities in their subjective qualities. They both have a neutral sound profile and a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. In terms of feel, they both offer a smooth and refined typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Red having a creamier and silkier feel, while the Duck switches have a mild and buttery feel. Overall, whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red or the SP-Star Duck switches, you can expect a satisfying and pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you're a beginner or someone who values a budget-friendly option with a smooth typing experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its light bottom out force and medium-high pitch, it offers a satisfying auditory experience while providing a balanced level of responsiveness and ease of use. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is perfect for you. With a slightly higher bottom out force and a gentle tactility, these switches offer a comfortable typing feel that stands in a safe middle-ground zone. Ultimately, the decision between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Duck switch comes down to your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and budget.
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