Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right switch for a mechanical keyboard, the distinctions between options can greatly influence your typing experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly linear switch that emphasizes a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes an ideal balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making it a great choice for both gamers and writers who prefer seamless key presses. Additionally, the G Pro Red features a frosted light diffuser, enhancing the brightness and vibrancy of RGB lighting effects, which appeals to those who enjoy aesthetic customization. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switch offers a more tactile typing experience, with subtle to moderate feedback that can enhance typing precision. This tactile characteristic, paired with a balanced sound profile, makes it appealing to those who appreciate a more engaged feel without the disruption often associated with clicky switches. Both switches have their unique advantages, catering to different preferences and typing styles; 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Weightlessness vastly differ in terms of their composition and the auditory experience they provide. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucency. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, enhancing the overall clarity and resonance of the keypress. In contrast, the Weightlessness uses a nylon top housing, which is softer than polycarbonate and leads to a deeper, fuller sound. This difference in material results in a significant variance in the acoustic characteristics of the two switches, with the G Pro 3.0 Red providing a more stimulating auditory feedback and the Weightlessness pushing towards a warmer, more rounded sound experience.
Both keyboards utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to a convergence in their overall sound profile at that level. The nylon construction in both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Weightlessness contributes to the absorption of sound, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound when a key is pressed down. Because of this shared component, regardless of the differences in the top housings, players can expect a somewhat similar tactile feel from both switches. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound, making the nylon attributes consistent between both switch types. This means that even as the top sounds diverge, the foundational thump created by the nylon bottom housing produces an echo of familiarity across both models.
In terms of gameplay or typing experience, the disparity in top housing materials manifests primarily during the release of the keys. The polycarbonate top of the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a clearer and sharper sound upon releasing the key, while the nylon top of the Weightlessness ensures a more subdued sound as the switch resets. Therefore, while both switches offer a compelling typing feel due to their common nylon bottom housing, the experience differs when considering key release sounds and audibility. Users seeking a crisper sound might gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 Red, while those preferring a more muted experience may prefer the Weightlessness. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials creates a diverse acoustic landscape in both switches, catering to different preferences in auditory feedback.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch differ in their actuation forces, with the G Pro 3.0 Red requiring a lighter 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, compared to the Weightlessness switch that has a slightly heftier actuation force of 50 grams. This distinction makes the G Pro 3.0 Red more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, as its lighter touch can reduce finger fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the Weightlessness switch is unknown, which leaves a gap in the comparison. The G Pro 3.0 Red's bottom out force is documented at 50 grams, indicating a consistent resistance felt when the switch is fully pressed down. Therefore, while both switches provide different tactile experiences, the G Pro 3.0 Red is undeniably the lighter option, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer keystroke feel, whereas the Weightlessness may appeal to those who appreciate a bit more weight in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in keyboard feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional and provides a deeper Keypress that many users appreciate for a more tactile and substantial feel. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, appealing to gamers and those who favor a quicker response time. As such, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a longer travel distance, while the Weightlessness provides a shorter distance. Users who prefer a more responsive and lighter touch may find the Gateron Weightlessness more suited to their needs, whereas those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their key presses might opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red.
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 Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, the G Pro 3.0 Red is noted for its neutral sound, which strikes a balance suitable for various environments, making it a versatile choice for users whether at home or in an office setting. This moderate sound profile is ideal for those looking for a switch that does not draw too much attention, providing a satisfactory auditory response without being disruptive. In contrast, the specific sound characteristics of the Weightlessness switch are not explicitly detailed, suggesting that its sound may vary depending on other factors, though it is likely to complement its tactile feel in a balanced manner.
Regarding the tactile feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red is characterized as “creamy,” “mild,” “polished,” and “silky,” indicating an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes friction and resistance. This ensures that each keystroke is effortless and satisfying, making it approachable for users of all skill levels. On the other hand, the Weightlessness tactile switch offers a subtle to moderate tactile feel, which may provide a different typing sensation that enhances feedback without being overly pronounced. The G Pro 3.0 Red’s smoothness contrasts with the tactile nuance of the Weightlessness switch, catering to different preferences in user experience.
In conclusion, if you're deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, you'll find that the G Pro 3.0 Red shines with its smooth, neutral sound and creamy typing feel, catering well to those who appreciate fluid key presses. The Weightlessness, while less described, likely offers a distinct tactile feedback that may appeal to users who enjoy a bit more nuance and complexity in their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, and your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth experience or tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a smooth and buttery typing experience without any audible click, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent choice. Its light bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it ideal for fast-paced typing, whether you're engaged in gaming or excessive text input. This switch shines with its creamy and polished feel, ensuring a responsive and enjoyable experience that won’t tire you out during long sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactile feedback with a balanced sound profile, the Gateron Weightlessness switch could be the right fit for you. While it's less defined in specifications, its tactile nature will provide a comfortable sensation when typing, making it suitable for various environments, especially quieter settings where you might not want a pronounced click sound. Ultimately, weigh your needs for smoothness versus tactile feedback to make your decision between these two distinctive mechanical switches.
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