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Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, each catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is celebrated for its smooth, linear action and medium-light actuation force, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate fast, uninterrupted keystrokes without tactile feedback. Its frosted light diffuser not only enhances RGB lighting effects but also contributes to an overall polished feel, providing a satisfying auditory experience without overwhelming noise. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches offer a distinct tactile experience characterized by a pronounced bump and a robust "thock" sound on bottoming out. This switch caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing and prefer a quieter environment, perfect for office settings or shared spaces. Both switches have their unique strengths, with the G Pro 3.0 Red excelling in a smooth, efficient typing experience and the U4Tx RGB offering a luxurious tactile feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

45g

Actuation force

N/A

Bottom-out force

50g

Bottom-out force

65g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

N/A

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

Proprietary Gazzew blend

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Proprietary Gazzew blend

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring

Spring

Stainless steel Korean spring

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, notable differences in sound profile and tactile experience emerge. The G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer composition that results in a sharper and crisper sound. This clarity is especially beneficial for users who prioritize sound feedback while typing, as it enhances the overall typing experience. Meanwhile, the U4Tx RGB's proprietary Gazzew blend for its top housing introduces a contrast; dubbed "boba plastic," this material is softer and designed to elicit a richer, deeper sound profile. This suggests that while the G Pro 3.0 Red excels in producing a high-pitched auditory response, the U4Tx RGB is more likely to offer a velvety typing experience that resonates with more depth, leading to distinct auditory characteristics between the two switches.

The bottom housings of these switches further illustrate the divergence in material choices. The G Pro 3.0 Red employs a nylon bottom housing, which is a well-established classic in the switch market. This material's softer nature contributes to a duller, more rounded sound profile that absorbs vibrations effectively, enhancing the overall muteness of the typing sound. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB also opts for the Gazzew blend in its bottom housing. This choice means that both switches share similarities in how they manage sound through the bottom housing; both deliver a deep and rich auditory experience owing to their softness. Therefore, the tonal qualities of the U4Tx RGB's overall sound profile may bear some resemblance to those produced by the G Pro 3.0 Red, particularly in terms of absorption and resonance.

In essence, the differences between the G Pro 3.0 Red and U4Tx RGB lie predominantly in the top housing materials, with one favoring a brighter sound and the other leaning towards a more full-bodied auditory profile. However, their analogous bottom housings allow them to achieve a common thread in deep sound characteristics, particularly during keystrokes. Thus, users can expect that the contrasting top housings will diverge in sound quality when the key is released, while the similarities in the bottom housings will ensure that both switches maintain a level of acoustic consistency when they bottom out. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference regarding sound profiles and tactile feedback.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which makes it relatively light and suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch does not have a specified actuation force but boasts a bottom out force of 65 grams, positioning it in the medium-heavy category. This difference suggests that the U4Tx RGB requires more pressure to fully engage compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Thus, the G Pro 3.0 Red is the lighter option, while the U4Tx RGB is the heavier switch, catering to different user preferences based on typing and gaming habits.

Travel distance

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in distance highlights the distinction in tactile feedback and responsiveness between the two switches. The longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key, which some users may prefer for a hearty depth in their typing experience. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the U4Tx RGB caters to gamers and those who favor quicker response times, as the shorter distance allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for either a more profound tactile engagement or a snappier, more responsive keystroke.

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 Gazzew U4Tx RGB comes in at $6.50 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 comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a neutral auditory experience. This means it maintains a balanced sound that is neither harsh nor extremely muted, making it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. The U4Tx RGB, on the other hand, is characterized by a satisfying deep "thock" as it bottoms out, along with a quieter sound profile when topping out. This gives it a more refined acoustic identity that many enthusiasts find luxurious. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfying auditory experiences, but the U4Tx RGB is likely to appeal to those seeking a deeper tonal quality.

In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red is noted for its creamy, mild, polished, and silky characteristics. This range provides a butter-smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances ease of use, making it attractive for both casual and more serious typists. In contrast, the specifics of the feel provided by the U4Tx RGB are not detailed, which leaves a gap in understanding how it compares in this aspect. However, given its tactile bump, it is reasonable to assume that the U4Tx RGB delivers a distinct and engaging experience, but without explicit descriptors, a direct comparison is challenging.

In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch offer different auditory and tactile experiences that cater to varying user preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red provides a neutral sound and an exceptionally smooth feel, making it accessible for most users, while the U4Tx RGB boasts a unique sound profile and tactile quality that may appeal to enthusiasts looking for a refined switch. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a creamy typing experience or a distinctive tactile sensation along with sound resonance. Both switches can be satisfying options depending on your typing style and aesthetic preferences.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you lean towards gaming or prefer a typing experience characterized by smoothness and minimal resistance, the G Pro 3.0 Reds would be a great fit for you. Their lighter actuation force of 50 grams makes them responsive, allowing for quick key presses without much effort, and their creamy, polished feel provides an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile bump and a richer auditory experience, the U4Tx RGB switch—with its deeper "thock" sound profile and medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams—might be more to your liking. This switch delivers a luxurious tactile experience that is especially satisfying during typing, making it suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback along with a refined and advanced sound profile. In essence, if you're new to mechanical keyboards and favor a more forgiving switch for general use, go for the G Pro 3.0 Red, but if you're an enthusiast seeking tactile richness, the U4Tx RGB is your go-to option.

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