Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Wuque Studio WS POM+ stand out as two popular linear options that cater to different preferences. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is lauded for its affordability and smooth typing experience, featuring a medium-light actuation force that ensures both ease of use and satisfying responsiveness. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, making it an appealing choice for gamers and enthusiasts who appreciate vibrant visual effects. In contrast, the WS POM+ is crafted entirely from POM material, offering a rich "thock" sound and a buttery-smooth keystroke that many typists find deeply satisfying. While the G Pro 3.0 Red strikes a balance between performance and accessibility, the WS POM+ excels in delivering an immersive auditory experience. Both switches have their merits, making the decision largely dependent on individual taste and typing style; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Wuque Studio WS POM+ integrate distinct housing materials that significantly influence their overall sound profiles and typing experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness and translucency, produces a clearer, sharper sound profile, which is particularly beneficial for RGB lighting setups. On the other hand, nylon's softer characteristics lend a deeper, fuller sound, making each keystroke feel more rounded and absorbed. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a unique sound that resonates on the deeper side, marked by its muted quality. This choice of material provides a different tactile experience, corresponding to a distinct auditory signature.
When comparing the top housings of the switches, the fundamental difference lies in the sonic characteristics produced. The G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top is designed for clarity and depth in sound as it reacts to RGB lighting, giving it an edge in scenarios where visual aesthetics play a role. In contrast, the POM top of the WS POM+ offers a sound that is inherently more muted and deeper, providing a softer auditory experience with less clarity. This divergence indicates how the choice of material can profoundly influence the auditory feedback of a mechanical switch. Notably, while both switches may operate with a depth of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Red leans toward higher pitches and crisper tones courtesy of its polycarbonate construction, while the WS POM+ delivers a more subdued and resonant experience.
In terms of bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Red's nylon housing further adds to the overall sound depth, enhancing the full-bodied response upon bottoming out. With the WS POM+, the POM material used in both top and bottom provides a consistent sound profile that is uniquely satisfying yet deeper and less reverberant than what nylon offers. When typing on these switches, one can expect the G Pro 3.0 Red to create a more dynamic audio experience with its contrasting materials, while the WS POM+ offers a seamless blend of sound and feel. Ultimately, the contrast between the materials used gives these switches their identity, making them suitable for different preferences in typing sound, feel, and overall mechanical performance.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, we see some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to register a keystroke, which can enhance typing efficiency and comfort during prolonged use. However, the bottom out force differs; the G Pro 3.0 Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the WS POM+ is slightly heavier at 55 grams. This indicates that while both switches feel light during regular typing, the WS POM+ offers a firmer push when fully pressed down. Therefore, for users who enjoy a subtler, lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be the ideal choice, whereas those who prefer a more substantial feeling when bottoming out may lean towards the WS POM+.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, the G Pro 3.0 Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option. In contrast, the WS POM+ has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The traditional 4 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a more substantial feel during typing, which many users may find comfortable. Meanwhile, the shorter 3.6 mm distance of the WS POM+ caters to those who prefer quicker actuation, ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you favor a more pronounced depth (G Pro 3.0 Red) or a snappier feel (WS POM+).
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 linear switch presents a neutral sound profile. This balanced acoustic characteristic makes it a versatile choice suitable for a range of environments, whether at home or in an office setting. The moderate sound levels allow for a pleasant typing experience without being overly noisy, which is especially appealing to those who prefer a more subdued auditory landscape. The WS POM+, on the other hand, boasts a deep and satisfying "thock" sound signature. This more pronounced sound, with its rich resonance, can create an engaging auditory experience that many typists find alluring. Therefore, if you're after an acoustic experience, G Pro 3.0 Red is suitable for a more discreet environment, while the WS POM+ offers a more exciting auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red excels with a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing sensation. This nuanced combination results in a particularly smooth and enjoyable experience, where keystrokes feel effortless and have reduced friction, allowing your fingers to glide seamlessly across the keys. The deliberate design enhances user comfort, making prolonged typing enjoyable and fatigue-free. In contrast, the feel of the WS POM+ is currently not specified, leaving its exact tactile quality to be discovered by users, meaning it could provide either a different or comparable tactile experience depending on its construction and materials.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is a great choice for those looking for a versatile and balanced sound profile combined with a luxurious typing feel, making it suitable for both casual typing and gaming. The WS POM+ offers a distinctively rich "thock" sound, which may resonate well with enthusiasts seeking deeper acoustic feedback. While the feel of the WS POM+ remains unknown, the creamy and smooth characteristics of the G Pro Red ensure a comfortable typing experience. In selecting between the two, consider the environment in which you'll be typing and your personal preferences in sound and feel, as both can create satisfying outcomes tailored to their unique qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter key feel with a bottom-out force of 50 grams and enjoy a smooth, buttery typing experience, then the G Pro 3.0 Red is a solid choice for you. This switch is ideal for typists who want a budget-friendly option that won't compromise on quality, making it suitable for both casual and serious typing sessions. Its neutral sound profile also makes it versatile enough to be used in various environments, whether at home or in an office setting.
On the other hand, if you're seeking a richer auditory experience and a satisfying "thock" sound signature, the WS POM+ may be more to your liking. With a slightly higher bottom-out force of 55 grams, this switch offers a more premium typing experience, backed by its all-POM construction that ensures durability and a uniquely smooth keystroke. If you appreciate the tactile feedback and want to enhance your typing experience with a deeper sound, then the WS POM+ is the switch for you. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing style and the atmosphere where you’ll be using the keyboard.
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