Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Bsun Kiki Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Bsun Kiki Red 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 Bsun Kiki Red both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is perfect for gamers looking for lightning-fast responsiveness with its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. It also boasts vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for an exhilarating auditory experience during gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Kiki Red, also a linear switch, is ideal for typists who appreciate a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance. With all-POM housings and smooth actuation facilitated by Ly in the stems, these switches provide a subtle yet satisfying tactile feedback. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Bsun Kiki Red, we can see that they both utilize different materials for their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 Silver boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Kiki Red features a POM top housing which produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate top housing offers a more clear and resonant sound profile, the Kiki Red's POM top housing provides a unique and pleasing sound experience on the deeper end of the spectrum.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver comes equipped with a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Bsun Kiki Red also utilizes POM for its bottom housing, creating the same unique and deep sound profile as it does for the top housing. Both switches offer a similar sound experience with their bottom housing materials, providing a consistent sound profile throughout the actuation of the switches.
It is interesting to note that while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver divides the qualities of its housing materials between the top and bottom housings, the Bsun Kiki Red maintains a consistent sound profile with its choice of POM for both top and bottom. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer unique and satisfying sound profiles, each with its own characteristics and qualities 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 Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a light actuation force. The G Pro 3.0 Silver requires 45 grams of force to actuate, while the Kiki Red only needs 42 grams. In terms of bottom out force, both switches require 50 grams of force, providing a consistent typing experience in that aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Kiki Red may appeal to those who prefer a slightly softer touch, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be favored by those who enjoy a bit more resistance. Overall, both switches offer a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Kiki Red's 3.6 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Silver's 3.4 mm travel distance provides a faster response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking quick actions. On the other hand, the Kiki Red's slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm may offer a bit more depth and tactile feedback for those who prefer a more deliberate keystroke. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, catering to users who prioritize speed and efficiency in their typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and desired typing feel.
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 Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and rich auditory feedback during key presses, characterized by a thocky sound. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is described as clacky, delivering a sharp, snappy, and percussive sound when pressed. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver focuses on a deeper and bass-heavy tone, the Kiki Red leans towards a crisp and bright sound. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Bsun Kiki Red switches are described as offering a creamy typing experience. This implies a smooth and buttery keystroke sensation, ensuring a seamless and effortless typing feel. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is noted for its buttery and creamy typing feedback, while the Kiki Red is highlighted for providing a frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience. These qualities cater to users who appreciate a smooth and refined typing feel with minimal resistance and effortless key travel.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Bsun Kiki Red switches both offer a creamy typing experience, they differ in terms of sound characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a bass-heavy and thocky sound profile, while the Kiki Red delivers a sharp and clacky sound. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can opt for either switch to achieve a smooth and enjoyable typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of smoothness and ease of typing with either switch, selecting based on their preferred sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the BSUN Kiki Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for gaming or typing experience. If you are looking for a switch that provides lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting for an exceptional gaming experience, then the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched and clacky sound profile, along with smooth actuation and medium-light weighting, then the Kiki Red switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your priorities and decide whether gaming performance or typing finesse is your primary focus when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your specific requirements.
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