Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Dareu Holly offer distinct features catering to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is a linear switch designed for gamers seeking lightning-fast responsiveness with its shorter 3.4mm travel distance. It also boasts vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for an immersive gaming experience at an affordable price. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly is a tactile switch with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, ideal for users looking for a balanced and distinctive typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver excels in gaming performance, the Holly offers a satisfying typing feel. 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Dareu Holly feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. As a result, both keyboards will provide a visually appealing and sonically pleasing experience when typing.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Dareu Holly feature nylon. Typing on switches with nylon housing will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound while typing. By having nylon bottom housing, both keyboards will offer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience that emphasizes the sound of each keystroke.
Although the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Dareu Holly share similarities in their housing materials, the distribution of these materials in the keyboards will affect the overall sound and feel. The qualities of the bottom housing will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the qualities of the top housing will impact the sound when releasing a key. This means that despite the similar housing materials, the keyboards may offer slightly different typing experiences based on how the materials are utilized in their respective designs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Holly's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Silver is 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Holly is unknown. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Silver for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Holly for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Dareu Holly tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Silver will provide a slightly quicker response time compared to the Holly switch. Gamers who prioritize fast and precise keystrokes may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Silver due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more deliberate and satisfying keystroke may opt for the Dareu Holly with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky auditory experience, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch presents a chirpy and clacky sound signature, combining elements that cater to users seeking a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a unique acoustic signature. Depending on individual preference, users can choose between a deeper and richer sound profile with the G Pro 3.0 Silver or a more distinct and sharp sound with the Holly switch.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a buttery and creamy typing experience, with smooth and fluid keystrokes that provide a seamless and effortless sensation while typing. On the other hand, information regarding the feel of the Dareu Holly switch is not available. However, based on the description of the sound profile emphasizing balance and unique elements, users can potentially expect a similar level of attention to tactile feedback and typing comfort.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch excels in providing a rich and bass-heavy sound profile, combined with a buttery and creamy typing experience for users looking for a smooth and immersive gaming or typing session. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly tactile switch stands out with a unique blend of chirpy and clacky elements, offering a distinctive typing experience that caters to users seeking a balanced and engaging feel while typing. Depending on individual preferences in sound and feel, both switches provide high-quality options for users to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that provides lightning-fast responsiveness for gaming, vibrant RGB lighting, and a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force, a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, and a balanced typing experience, then the Holly switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for gaming performance, sound profile, and typing feel.
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