Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Durock Medium Tactile, two mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is renowned for its exceptional gaming experience and unmatched value. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, these switches offer lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive advantage. The vibrant RGB lighting, complemented by the frosted light diffuser, illuminates your gaming setup, while the medium-high pitch adds an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile provides a unique tactile experience with its pronounced yet balanced tactility. It features a jelly-like sound signature, adding to the overall typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and choosing between them may depend on personal preference. However, let's explore further to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Durock Medium Tactile share similar housing materials, as they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it an ideal material for switches with clear housings that intend to utilize RGB lighting. Both switches will provide a clear and resonant sound thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Aesthetically, they will have a similar appearance due to their translucent top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Silver features a nylon material, while the Medium Tactile also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound due to the nylon bottom housing.
In terms of overall performance, the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Medium Tactile will offer comparable results due to their shared polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Both switches will produce crisp and resonant sounds when typing, and their differences in sound profiles can be attributed to the variation in materials used for their bottom housings. The impact on bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing a key will be affected by the properties of the top housing. Overall, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, we can observe some key differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes it a suitable choice for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to comfortably type for longer periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare with the G Pro 3.0 Silver. However, its bottom out force of 65 grams suggests a medium-heavy switch. For those seeking a more substantial push feel and a stronger typing experience, the Medium Tactile switch may be the preferred option. It is worth noting that if the actuation forces of both switches were the same, users could expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the lighter option, while the Medium Tactile is the heavier option, providing users with different choices depending on their preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying key press, allowing for smooth and comfortable typing experiences. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Medium Tactile, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 switches are known for their bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The Medium Tactile switches from Durock, on the other hand, do not have any specific sound descriptors mentioned. 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 switches are described as buttery and creamy. They offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The Medium Tactile switches are described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished. These switches provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. They offer a more gentle typing experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, and a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches have a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, along with a buttery and creamy feel. While specific sound and feel descriptors are not mentioned for the Medium Tactile switches, they are described as providing a prominent yet balanced tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Both switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel, and the choice between them would depend on personal preference. However, if you are looking for a similar sound profile to the G Pro 3.0 Silver, you may get similar results with the Medium Tactile switches' accented and polished characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are an avid gamer looking for an affordable option that provides lightning-fast responsiveness, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams and shorter travel distance, these switches offer unmatched value and can give you a competitive advantage in gaming. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches have a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. As for the feel, these switches are described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the Durock Medium Tactile would be the way to go. These switches offer a pronounced yet balanced tactility, described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished. While not as specifically described in terms of sound, you can expect a jelly-like sound signature from these switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch comes down to personal preferences. Consider factors such as your typing or gaming style, desired sound profile, and preferred level of tactility. Both switches offer their unique advantages and can enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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