Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock White Lotus. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch, known for its smooth typing experience and budget-friendly price point. It strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use with its medium-light actuation force. Additionally, the G Pro Red features a frosted light diffuser for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, accompanied by a satisfying medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus is a tactile switch designed with the discerning typist in mind. It offers a delicate tactility that is ideal for work and extended typing sessions, without overwhelming the user. With a removable light column, the White Lotus switches allow for captivating and luminous RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, while these general pointers provide a glimpse into the strengths of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock White Lotus differ in their housing materials, particularly in the top housing. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to its aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, providing a unique and premium feel. While both switches offer a translucent housing, the G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top housing is specifically designed for enhanced sound and visual effects.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the White Lotus employ nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. However, the G Pro 3.0 Red emphasizes the nylon bottom housing's ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound during typing. The similar use of nylon in the White Lotus ensures a comparable experience in terms of sound, creating a deep and full profile that is characteristic of switches with nylon bottom housings.
The distinction between the top and bottom housings of these switches is important to consider when evaluating their overall performance. The bottom housing primarily affects the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect differences in the sound profiles of the G Pro 3.0 Red and the White Lotus due to their divergent top housing materials. However, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar deep and full sound experience when typing on both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that both switches offer a relatively light typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the White Lotus has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams. Despite the slight variation, both switches fall within the lighter spectrum.
For those who value a lightweight keyboard, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the White Lotus provide an ideal option. The lighter actuation force allows for a swift and effortless keystroke, enabling users to type for longer periods without strain or fatigue. Whether it's for professional use or extended gaming sessions, these switches provide a comfortable experience.
However, if one prefers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the White Lotus may be the preferred choice. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 56 grams, it offers a slightly more satisfying tactile feedback compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's 50 grams.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch will depend on personal preference. Both switches offer a light typing experience, with the White Lotus providing a slightly heavier bottom out force for those seeking a bit more feedback. Regardless of the choice, typing on either switch will result in a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience and feel when pressing down on a key. Whether it is the G Pro 3.0 Red or the White Lotus, users can expect a consistent travel distance of 4 mm, resulting in a satisfying tactile response. Both switches offer excellent responsiveness and are suitable for enthusiasts looking for a smooth 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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 is known for its neutral sound profile with a medium-high pitch. This means that the sound produced by these switches is not overly loud or soft, striking a pleasant balance. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch offers a low-pitched sound, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches are described as having a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for most typing purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky. This means that typing on these switches provides a smooth and buttery experience with reduced friction, resulting in effortless key travel. The typing feel is exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Similarly, the Durock White Lotus switch offers an easy-to-press experience, with gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Both switches fall within a mild category, providing a gentle typing experience without any extreme characteristics.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Red excels in producing a medium-high pitch sound with a smooth and buttery typing feel. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch offers a lower-pitched sound and an easy-to-press typing experience. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them versatile options for various typing needs. While the switches differ in specific qualities, individuals who enjoy one switch are likely to find similar results with the other.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be a suitable choice. These switches provide a good balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users. With its frosted light diffuser, the G Pro Red also allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing element to your keyboard setup. In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a neutral profile, making it suitable for various environments and purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile option that is designed for refined typists, the Durock White Lotus switches would be a great option. These switches offer a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. With the ability to remove the light column, the White Lotus switches also allow for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects, adding a captivating glow to your keyboard. In terms of sound, the White Lotus switches have a low-pitched profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock White Lotus switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a linear switch with a smooth and creamy typing experience, the G Pro Red would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a light tactile switch with a gentle and easy-to-press typing feel, the White Lotus switches would be a better fit. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and feel when making your decision.
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