Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and Gateron Ink Box Black are both fantastic options when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is perfect for those looking to embark on a gaming odyssey. Its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, offers lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive advantage. The vibrant RGB lighting, enhanced by the frosted light diffuser, adds a visually stunning element to any gaming setup, while the medium-high pitch provides an exhilarating auditory experience. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers unmatched value, delivering exceptional gaming performance without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black, also a linear switch, stands out for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel. Its sound signature, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, adds a unique touch to typing sessions. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the Ink Box Black offers a distinct typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Ink Box Black, we can see some similarities and differences. Firstly, both switches feature a unique sound profile. The G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a relatively high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound. Although they have distinct characteristics, both switches offer pleasing and satisfying sound experiences.
In terms of aesthetics, the G Pro 3.0 Silver stands out due to its clear polycarbonate top housing, making it a suitable choice for those who enjoy RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which while not transparent, still maintains its unique appearance. So, while the materials differ visually, both switches offer interesting options for users seeking either transparency or a distinctive blend.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a nylon material. Nylon is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. Similarly, the Ink Box Black also uses Gateron's proprietary INK blend material for its bottom housing. This material contributes to the pointed and high-pitched, yet not overly sharp, clacky sound profile that is often described by users. Thus, both switches deliver satisfying sound characteristics, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver offering a deeper tone and the Ink Box Black providing a distinctive clacky sound.
Although the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, they play important roles in the overall sound and feel of typing. Pressing down on the switches allows users to experience the qualities of the bottom housing, with the bottom-out sound and feel influenced by the bottom housing material. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key is impacted more by the top housing material. Therefore, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver and Ink Box Black provide slightly different sound profiles, they share the understanding that the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches, there are notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Ink Box Black is comparatively heavier with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Silver requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke and provides a relatively softer typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, making it ideal for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches, however, provide satisfying tactile feedback and performance.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm.
In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers who value faster response times. The shorter distance allows for quicker actuation and therefore, faster keystrokes. If you prioritize responsiveness in your typing or gaming experience, the Ink Box Black may be the better choice for you.
However, it's important to note that shorter travel distances can sometimes feel abrupt or lacking in depth for certain individuals. If you prefer a more substantial key press or enjoy a deeper feeling when typing, the G Pro 3.0 Silver with its slightly longer travel distance may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 deep and bassy sound profile during key presses. It produces a lower frequency range, similar to the rich and full sound associated with bass tones. This gives the typing experience a satisfying and immersive auditory element. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch has a clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. It offers a crisp and bright tone, which can add a distinct character to the typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is often described as buttery and creamy. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The switch glides under your fingers with ease, creating a silky sensation as each key is pressed. Alternatively, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is known for its silky and polished feel. It offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This switch provides a refined and sleek typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, it's clear that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a deep and bassy sound with a buttery and creamy feel, while the Ink Box Black offers a clacky sound with a silky and polished feel. Depending on personal preferences, one switch may be more suitable than the other. However, both switches provide excellent performance and value for gamers and typists alike. It's important to consider factors such as personal sound and feel preferences, as well as the overall setup of the keyboard, to achieve the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that provides lightning-fast responsiveness and a competitive advantage in gaming, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With a shorter travel distance and vibrant RGB lighting, these switches offer excellent value without breaking the bank. They are known for their bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. Furthermore, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation, described as buttery and creamy, enhancing your overall typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is the perfect fit. These switches are incredibly smooth and creamy, offering a silky and polished typing experience. They produce a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a crisp and percussive feedback during key presses.
Ultimately, the choice between the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Ink Box Black linear switches depends on your personal preferences and specific use case. Consider factors such as gaming performance, typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force to make an informed decision. Both switches offer unique qualities and cater to different needs, so choose the one that aligns with your individual requirements.
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