Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch stand out for their distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is ideal for gamers seeking lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting, while the Ice King Tactile caters to those who desire a smooth typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a competitive advantage with its shorter travel distance and medium-high pitch, the Ice King Tactile delivers a satisfying tactile experience with a creamy smoothness and unique tactile bump. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Durock Ice King Tactile, one key difference lies in the top housing material. The G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature, while the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
Additionally, both switches share a nylon bottom housing material, which further emphasizes the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon. This shared bottom housing material highlights a similarity in sound profile between the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Ice King Tactile, as both switches will exhibit the duller and rounder sound associated with nylon. While the top housing material may differ between the two switches, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Durock Ice King Tactile plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing feel of the switch. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Silver creates a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile produces a deeper and fuller sound. Despite differences in top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing material ensures a commonality in sound profile between the two switches. Ultimately, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when choosing between different keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter in both aspects compared to the Ice King Tactile. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile features a higher actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their force requirements, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver being lighter and the Ice King Tactile being heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm option, which can provide faster response times preferred by gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be very noticeable to most users, as they both fall within the shorter end of the spectrum. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of how much depth and feedback you prefer when typing or gaming.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 linear switch is characterized by a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, offering a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch produces a more subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch delivers a more resonant and impactful typing experience, the Ice King Tactile switch offers a quieter and more understated sound, suitable for users looking for a more discreet typing sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This results in a seamless and effortless typing sensation, perfect for users who prioritize typing comfort. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offers a silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing experience while minimizing resistance and providing a refined key travel. The Ice King Tactile switch offers a tactile bump that adds a satisfying feedback during typing, catering to users who enjoy a more tactile typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switch provides a deep and resonant sound with a buttery and creamy feel, ideal for users looking for a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued sound with a silky and polished feel, perfect for users seeking a quieter and smoother typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that enhance the overall typing and gaming experience, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when making the decision between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a light bottom out force, lightning-fast responsiveness, and vibrant RGB lighting for a competitive gaming experience, then the G Pro 3.0 Silver might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a satisfying tactile bump, and a creamy smooth typing experience, then the Ice King Tactile could be the perfect fit for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features and qualities are most important to you in a keyboard switch, whether it be for gaming or typing purposes.
Mentioned in this article
