Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches for your gaming or typing needs, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Lunar Probe. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is a linear switch that offers lightning-fast responsiveness due to its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, making it ideal for gamers seeking a competitive edge. With vibrant RGB lighting and a thrilling auditory experience, this switch provides exceptional value without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe stands out for its novel dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, along with a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. While both switches have their unique strengths, such as the G Pro's gaming-focused features and the Lunar Probe's smooth typing experience, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Lunar Probe both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch's sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, offering a visually pleasing experience. However, while both switches share this top housing material, their overall performance may differ based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
Both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Lunar Probe utilize nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics. Nylon is known for its softer properties, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller, rounder sound when typing on the switches. This bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, influencing the sound and feel of bottoming out keys. Despite their different top housings, the similarities in bottom housing material suggest that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
When analyzing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Lunar Probe, it is evident that the choice of materials impacts the switches' sound profile and tactile feedback. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that produce a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split between top and bottom housing qualities allows for a balanced typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials results in a unique typing experience for each switch, with users able to enjoy a mixture of sharpness, clarity, and depth in their key presses.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 50 grams, making them equal in terms of weight. This means that both switches offer a light typing experience, which is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. The actuation force is the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure required to fully press the key. Overall, both switches provide a smooth and responsive typing experience, catering to users who prefer a lighter actuation force for easier typing.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a slightly quicker key press experience compared to the Lunar Probe. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Silver, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Lunar Probe. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular for their efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth 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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 is known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky characteristics, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses with a medium-high pitch that adds to the overall auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is described as offering a subtle sound signature, suggesting a quieter typing experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver. Both switches can offer satisfying sound profiles, but the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be more noticeable and impactful in a gaming environment.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is known for its buttery and creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that is seamless and effortless. The pre-lubed linear feel of the Lunar Probe switch promises an incredibly smooth and consistent keypress experience, allowing for a silky sensation when typing. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver leaning towards a more luxurious and buttery feel while the Lunar Probe emphasizes smoothness and consistency.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offers a vibrant RGB lighting experience, lightning-fast responsiveness, and a satisfying typing feel with its buttery and creamy characteristics. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch focuses on stable and consistent keypresses, along with an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide an exceptional gaming or typing experience, ensuring that newcomers will get a similar level of performance and quality from either option.
Conclusion
Overall, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers lightning-fast responsiveness, vibrant RGB lighting, and a medium-high pitch sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize stable and consistent keypresses, incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear switches, and a subtle sound signature, then the Lunar Probe switches might be more suited to your needs. Consider factors such as sound profile, keypress feel, and gaming experience to make the decision that aligns best with your preferences. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Lunar Probe, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing or gaming experience.
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