Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Embark on a gaming odyssey with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Ink Box Pink, two popular mechanical keyboard switches that each offer their own unique advantages. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is best known for its exceptional value and gaming experience. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive edge. The vibrant RGB lighting, enhanced by the frosted light diffuser, adds a visually stunning element to any gaming setup, while the medium-high pitch adds an exhilarating auditory aspect. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink, also a linear switch, is praised for its smoothness and lighter typing feel relative to other mechanical switches. It offers a higher-pitched clack, adding a satisfying auditory feedback. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and advantages, 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
60g
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
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Ink Box Pink differ in their composition. The G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is also translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate top housing focuses on clarity and resonance, the Ink Box Pink's INK blend top housing offers a satisfying thin and clacky sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Silver incorporates a nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink boasts a proprietary INK blend bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This blend offers a pointed and high-pitched sound, contributing to a satisfying thin and clacky typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver's nylon bottom housing aims for a deeper and fuller sound, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink focuses on achieving a higher-pitched and clacky sound.
Although the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Ink Box Pink differ, they deliver similar results in some aspects. Both switches strive for a higher-pitched sound profile, although the G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate top housing leans towards being sharper and crisper, while the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing aims for a satisfying thin and clacky sound. Additionally, both switches provide a distinct typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver's nylon bottom housing giving a deeper and fuller sound, and the Ink Box Pink's INK blend bottom housing producing a pointed and high-pitched sound. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Ink Box Pink requires a slightly heavier 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Silver requires 50 grams to press all the way down, whereas the Ink Box Pink requires a slightly higher 60 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Silver is overall lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Ink Box Pink.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be a suitable choice as it allows for longer typing periods without causing fatigue. However, if individuals prefer a more substantial push feel while typing, the Ink Box Pink would be preferable due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. It is important to consider the weight of these switches when choosing a keyboard, as it can greatly impact typing comfort and overall user experience during long work or gaming sessions. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, and individuals can make their selection based on their personal preferences and requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, we can see that the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ink Box Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while 3.0 mm is on the shallower side. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become more popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. For those seeking a more responsive experience, the Ink Box Pink with its 3.6 mm travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, preferring a switch with a longer travel distance. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Silver with its 4 mm travel distance would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend 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 Pink 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 Pink 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offers a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. This means that during key presses, you can expect a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound is mellow and satisfying, producing a deep "thud" or soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch produces a clacky, high-pitched sound. The sound is sharp, crisp, and percussive, offering a bright and snappy tone. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is a better choice, while if you enjoy a sharper and crisper sound, the Ink Box Pink is ideal. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch provides a buttery and creamy typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. They feel like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a silky and polished typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. They have a refined and sleek finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a seamless and uniform typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is a great choice, whereas if you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and polished typing feel, the Ink Box Pink is more suitable.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, accompanied by a buttery and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink offers a clacky, high-pitched sound, accompanied by a silky and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a seamless and uniform typing feel, go for the G Pro 3.0 Silver. If you prefer a sharp and crisp sound with an exceptionally smooth and polished typing experience, opt for the Ink Box Pink. Keep in mind that other factors such as keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are embarking on a gaming odyssey and are looking for unmatched value and lightning-fast responsiveness, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the perfect choice for you. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches offer a light typing feel, making them ideal for gaming. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches also provide a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. If you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience, these switches are described as buttery and creamy, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter typing feel and enjoy a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches provide a medium typing feel, making them suitable for both gaming and typing tasks. The Box Pink switches offer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, giving you a crisp and percussive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink switches are described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches depends on your preferences and priorities. Consider factors such as typing feel, sound profile, and intended usage (gaming or typing) to make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize lightning-fast responsiveness and a bassy sound profile or a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, both switches offer unique advantages that enhance your overall typing experience.