Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the PH Studio Jacaranda both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is ideal for gamers seeking a competitive edge, with its lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Jacaranda by PH Studio stands out for its gentle bottom-out and crisp feedback, making it a comfortable and satisfying option for typists. While both switches have their own strengths, such as the G Pro's budget-friendly value and the Jacaranda's bouncy sensation, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the PH Studio Jacaranda utilize polycarbonate for their top housing materials, resulting in a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it ideal for those looking to customize their keyboard setup with colorful lighting. Additionally, the stiffness of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound profile, adding an extra layer of auditory feedback to the typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both switches opt for nylon, a classic choice known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that is favored by many typing enthusiasts. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to the overall typing experience and comfort for users.
While both switches share similarities in their choice of housing materials, the specific design and manufacturing process of each keyboard may result in subtle differences in sound and feel. The top and bottom housings play a crucial role in the overall sound profile of a switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel and the top housing affecting the sound when a key is released. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver or the PH Studio Jacaranda, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with excellent sound feedback and customizable RGB lighting options.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, we can see that both switches are on the lighter side. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jacaranda's 39 grams, but both have a bottom out force of 50 grams and 45 grams, respectively. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 Silver may require a slightly firmer initial press, the overall typing experience on both switches will feel quite similar. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter switch is more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while a heavier switch provides a more substantial typing experience. In this case, both switches offer a light and comfortable typing experience, making them suitable for a variety of users.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Jacaranda switch is slightly longer than the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver being a bit shorter than the Jacaranda. Gamers looking for quicker response times might prefer the G Pro 3.0 Silver, while those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may lean towards the Jacaranda. Overall, both switches offer relatively similar travel distances, so users can expect comparable results in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 the sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched characteristics, providing a satisfyingly deep and rich sound during key presses. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, delivering a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke. Both switches have unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver leaning towards a deeper tone and the Jacaranda towards a sharper sound. Your choice between the two would largely depend on whether you prefer a bass-heavy sound or a brighter, crisper tone.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch is labeled as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing sensation that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience by ensuring a comfortable and easy-on-the-fingers feel. Whether you prefer a buttery and creamy typing experience or a silky smooth sensation, both switches offer a high level of comfort during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches each have their own unique characteristics when it comes to sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Silver excels in providing a deep and rich sound profile with a buttery and creamy typing feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more bass-heavy tone and seamless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch stands out with its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, coupled with a silky smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer exceptional qualities that will elevate your typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two would depend on whether you prioritize a deeper sound with a buttery feel or a crisper sound with a silky smooth typing sensation.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering a switch for your mechanical keyboard, you would want to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch if you are looking for a switch that is ideal for gaming. With its light bottom-out force and shorter travel distance, these switches provide fast responsiveness for competitive gaming. The RGB lighting and medium-high pitch also add to the immersive gaming experience without breaking the bank. On the other hand, if you prioritize typing comfort and sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch might be the better option for you. With a gentle bottom-out force and a unique extended spring design, these switches offer fatigue-free typing and a bouncy sensation with each keystroke. The clacky sound signature also provides a crisp and bright auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice between the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Jacaranda will depend on whether you prioritize gaming performance or typing comfort and sound quality in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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