Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboards switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Type L both stand out for their unique features. The G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, is praised for its budget-friendly nature and smooth typing experience, with a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. It also offers vibrant RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience with its medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L, also a linear switch, is part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" and boasts being the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out. It delivers a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a satisfying typing experience and bright lighting effects, the Type L offers a lightweight and easy-to-press option with a unique sound profile. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Type L, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Type L features a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, ideal for those looking for a more resonant sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Type L offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softer nature.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Type L incorporate a nylon bottom housing. This choice of material for the bottom housing allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Despite both switches using nylon for the bottom housing, the impact of the bottom housing material can be felt when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel.
While the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Type L differ in terms of the top housing (polycarbonate vs. nylon), their choice of nylon for the bottom housing creates a similar experience in terms of sound profile. Both switches offer a deep and full sound experience, with the differences in top housing material affecting the overall sound profile and feel of the switch when in use. Whether opting for the G Pro 3.0 Red with its polycarbonate top housing for a crisper sound or the Type L with its nylon top housing for a fuller sound, the bottom housing material ensures a consistent depth in sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the lighter category. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. However, some users may find the lighter actuation force of the Type L to be slightly more responsive compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference for a lighter touch or a slightly heavier push feel during typing.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that they offer the same amount of keypress travel. This means that whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Red or the Type L, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. This also indicates that neither switch is shorter or longer in terms of travel distance compared to the other. So, if you are looking for consistency in keypress feel and travel distance, either of these switches would provide you with the same results.
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 Type L comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound when pressed, making them suitable for various environments and user preferences. The Type L switch, however, also has the added quality of being subdued, offering a more muted sound compared to most switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as having a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. These qualities indicate that the switch offers a smooth and refined typing feel, with reduced friction and a silky sensation when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, meaning it requires minimal force to activate and offers a light and effortless typing experience. Both switches provide different levels of tactile feedback and actuation force to cater to varying preferences.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a balanced typing experience with a medium-light actuation force and a medium-high pitch sound, the Type L stands out for its light actuation force requirement and deeper sound profile. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, both switches can enhance your overall typing performance and provide a satisfying user experience. Ultimately, choosing between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Type L will depend on your personal preferences and typing style, but rest assured that you'll get similar high-quality results with either switch option.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth typing experience with a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, then the G Pro 3.0 Red with its 50g bottom out force may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a medium-high pitch and vibrant RGB lighting effects, this switch could elevate your typing performance without breaking the bank. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a 45g bottom out force that provides a deeper sound signature and a dampened sound when pressed, the Type L might be more suitable. Its feathery feel and easy-to-press qualities make it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel to optimize your typing experience.
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