Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches: the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. If you're seeking a smooth and budget-friendly linear switch, the G Pro 3.0 Red is your go-to option. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes the perfect balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, and its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, if you're after a profound and pronounced tactile bump that makes every keystroke feel engaging, the WS Heavy Tactile is the switch for you. With a tactile force of 70g, each keystroke is imbued with satisfying resistance, creating an immersive typing journey. It also offers a captivating sound profile, thanks to Wuque Studio's nylon housings that contribute to a "thocky" resonance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
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
A major difference between the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile lies in their top housing. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to its stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the contrary, the WS Heavy Tactile employs a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer plastic nature absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softness allows for sound absorption, generating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of sound characteristics, the bottom housings of the G Pro 3.0 Red and the WS Heavy Tactile provide similar results.
When considering the overall impact on the typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing are predominant. Pressing down on the switch triggers the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In this regard, the G Pro 3.0 Red and the WS Heavy Tactile may demonstrate differences due to their varying bottom housing materials. However, the sound when letting go of a key will primarily be influenced by the top housing material, which diverges between the two switches. Therefore, while some similarities exist, such as both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, the distinct top housing materials will result in noticeable differences in sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile's actuation force is currently unknown. Both switches have a light bottom out force, with the G Pro 3.0 Red requiring 50 grams and the WS Heavy Tactile requiring 45 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red is a suitable choice, as its low actuation and bottom out forces allow for smoother and more effortless keystrokes. This would be ideal for individuals who use their keyboards for extended periods of time, such as in a work environment or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing experience is desired, where a stronger push feel is preferred, the WS Heavy Tactile switch might be a better option, even though its actuation force is unknown. The bottom out force of the WS Heavy Tactile is still relatively light at 45 grams, providing a comfortable typing experience while offering that satisfying tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is explicitly stated as lighter compared to the WS Heavy Tactile, both switches share a light bottom out force. Depending on personal preferences, one can choose either the G Pro 3.0 Red for a lighter and more effortless typing experience or the WS Heavy Tactile for a tactile switch with a potentially heavier actuation force, offering a more substantial feel while typing.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch have contrasting travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This makes it the shorter option compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. The G Pro 3.0 Red's 4.0 mm travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial keypress, while the WS Heavy Tactile's 3.2 mm distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer unique experiences, so choosing between them depends on individual preferences. However, if a shorter travel distance is desired for improved responsiveness, the WS Heavy Tactile would be the better option.
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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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 it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch has a neutral profile with a medium-high pitch. This results in a satisfying auditory experience that strikes a balance between richness and sharpness. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more diverse sound profile. It is described as clacky, high-pitched, and resonant. This means that it produces a sharp, crisp, and immersive sound with each keystroke. The Wuque switch provides a more pronounced sound experience compared to the Gateron switch. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a creamy and mild typing experience. It is characterized by its smooth and buttery feel, thanks to lubrication applied at the factory. This switch provides a silky sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. It falls into a safe middle ground, making it approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile experience. It has a pronounced tactile bump that is strong and crisp, providing distinct feedback with each keypress. Additionally, it is also described as bouncy and snappy, giving it a lively and responsive feel. The Wuque switch offers a more intense and tactile typing experience compared to the Gateron switch.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gateron switch provides a neutral sound profile with a medium-high pitch and a creamy, mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque switch offers a diverse and captivating sound profile with a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound, as well as an invigorating and sharp tactile experience. If you are looking for a smoother and more neutral typing experience, the Gateron switch is a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a more pronounced sound and tactile feedback, the Wuque switch will provide an immersive and engaging typing journey. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is a great choice. With its medium-light actuation force of 50 grams and frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects, this switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work. Its sound profile is neutral, making it versatile for various environments.
On the other hand, if you seek an immersive and engaging typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is the way to go. With a tactile force of 70 grams, these switches offer a profound and pronounced tactile bump, giving each keystroke a satisfying resistance. The sound profile of the WS Heavy Tactile is described as clacky, high-pitched, and resonant, providing a sharp and crisp sound. This switch is for those who appreciate a more rich and bassy sound profile.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red is known for its creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, typing on this switch feels effortless and smooth. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile provides an accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel. These switches offer pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch depends on your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, go for the G Pro 3.0 Red. If you crave a more immersive and engaging typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump and rich sound profile, opt for the WS Heavy Tactile. Whichever switch you choose, both options provide unique qualities that enhance your overall typing performance.