Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Bsun Taichi both offer unique features that cater to different preferences, despite both being linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 Red is celebrated for its balanced actuation force, which allows for a smooth typing experience ideal for both casual users and competitive gamers alike. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, making it a visual treat as well. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi captivates with its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, resulting from its long-pole stem and extended springs, which contribute to an exceptionally smooth and stable performance. While the G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly option that focuses on comfort and vibrant aesthetics, the Taichi aims to deliver auditory satisfaction and an elite feel. 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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Bsun Taichi both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which contributes to their similar acoustic characteristics. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffer composition, allows for a sharper and more resonant sound profile, resulting in a higher-pitched and crisper auditory experience when typing. This similarity in material choice means that users can expect a comparable performance when it comes to sound clarity and resonance, especially beneficial for users who favor RGB lighting setups, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the illumination to shine through beautifully.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, a material renowned for generating a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a rounded and muted acoustic experience. This disparity between the materials in the top and bottom housings results in a distinct sound signature when typing. Upon pressing a key, the nylon bottom will dominate the acoustic characteristics thanks to its sound-dampening properties, while the polycarbonate top will enrich the release sound upon key release, thus creating an engaging typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Bsun Taichi offer similar audio characteristics due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing. While both switches might produce a unique and enjoyable sound profile stemming from their material combinations, the difference in acoustic properties can lead to a distinguishable typing experience. Users seeking a specific auditory feedback will find that the combination of a stiffer top housing and a softer bottom housing effectively blends sharper highs with deeper lows, ensuring a balanced and dynamic sound profile for both switches.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch exhibit noticeable differences in their actuation forces. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, requiring a moderate amount of effort to trigger a keystroke, whereas the Taichi switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams. This distinction indicates that users who prefer a lighter switch may find the Taichi more suitable, as it allows for easier and potentially longer typing sessions. In terms of bottom-out force, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a measured bottom-out force of 50 grams, suggesting a firmer feel when pressing the key all the way down. In contrast, the bottom-out force for the Taichi switch is unavailable, leaving uncertainty regarding its performance in that aspect. While the G Pro 3.0 Red is heavier in both actuation and bottom-out forces, the Taichi's unmeasured bottom-out force could mean it is either lighter or simply unquantified. Consequently, users can expect a more substantial typing experience with the G Pro 3.0 Red, while those who value a lighter switch may prefer the Bsun Taichi, assuming its bottom-out characteristics align favorably.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is 4 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Red has a longer travel distance compared to the Taichi, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Taichi may appeal to gamers or those seeking a quicker response time for more rapid key presses. Although both switches are linear, providing a smooth key press without tactile bump or audible click, the difference in travel distance suggests that the G Pro 3.0 Red may offer a more pronounced typing experience, whereas the Taichi may feel more abrupt and responsive. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize depth or responsiveness in your typing experience.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 offers a neutral auditory profile, which makes it versatile for various environments, whether for quiet home use or more public settings. It has a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying sound without being overly intrusive. This balance allows users to enjoy a pleasant typing experience while minimizing disruption to those around them. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch is noted for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, which is crafted using a long-pole stem and extended springs. This can produce a distinctive and satisfying auditory feedback, though the specifics of its sound profile beyond that are less detailed.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red excels with a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. These descriptors indicate a switch that delivers a smooth, buttery consistent feel as keys are pressed, contributing to a refined and gentle typing experience that is forgiving for both novice and experienced users alike. This combination ensures that users enjoy a seamless transition from key to key. The specific tactile feel of the Bsun Taichi switch remains unmentioned, making direct comparisons in this aspect difficult. However, given its design emphasis on smoothness and stability, one can anticipate a high level of comfort, though the exact nature of that feeling is undefined.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is well-regarded for its balanced sound and smooth, enjoyable feel, the Bsun Taichi switch stands out for its unique auditory character. Without direct comparisons for the Taichi's sound and feel, it remains challenging to draw definitive conclusions. However, for those who prefer a striking sound signature, the Taichi may offer an enchanting alternative. Therefore, users seeking a well-rounded, all-purpose switch may gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 Red, while those intrigued by a unique auditory experience should consider exploring the Bsun Taichi. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize balanced performance or distinctive sound in your typing routine.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Bsun Taichi linear switch largely depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you're looking for a switch that provides a balanced, smooth typing experience with a light actuation force of 50 grams, the G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent choice. It's particularly ideal for budget-conscious users who want a creamy, polished feel that is versatile enough for both home and work environments, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced typists alike. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the enchanting auditory experience and unparalleled smoothness offered by the long-pole stems and extended springs of the Taichi switch, you might prefer its unique high-pitched sound profile, which elevates the tactile experience, although specific bottom-out force information is not available. Ultimately, your decision should focus on the kind of typing experience you desire—whether you prioritize affordability and versatility with the G Pro 3.0 Red or the distinct sound and stability features of the Bsun Taichi.
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