Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Cherry MX Black are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that both fall under the category of linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, from Gateron's G Pro lineup, is known for providing exceptional value and delivering an outstanding gaming experience. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches offer lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive edge. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver features vibrant RGB lighting enhanced by a frosted light diffuser, creating an immersive visual experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switches have been perfected by Cherry, offering a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile when typing. These switches are known for their stiffness and low-pitched auditory feedback. Both switches have their unique qualities, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and gaming requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-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 Cherry MX Black switches differ in terms of their sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the MX Black incorporates a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the MX Black switches utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Again, the relative softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a dulled and rounded sound. Therefore, both switches will provide similar sound profiles in the bottom housing aspect.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch contribute differently to the overall sound and feel. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing play a bigger role in the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the MX Black may differ in their top housing materials, both switches will still provide a satisfying typing experience due to the shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it becomes evident that there are significant differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switch has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, meaning a gentle touch is all that is needed to register a keystroke. In contrast, the MX Black switch requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, making it more resistant to accidental keystrokes.
When it comes to the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch has a force of 50 grams, while the MX Black switch is even heavier at 80 grams. This means that typing on the MX Black switch will provide a more substantial typing experience as it requires greater force to fully press the key down.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience that enables longer typing sessions, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch would be the ideal choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for effortless typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more satisfying typing experience would find the Cherry MX Black switch more suitable. Its higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a tactile response that some users prefer.
In essence, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, while the Cherry MX Black switch is heavier. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences and it ultimately depends on personal preference when deciding which one to choose.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar feel when pressing down on a key, as they require the same amount of travel to register a keystroke. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and tactile feedback when using either switch.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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 switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched characteristics. These switches provide a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, they produce a thocky sound, which is a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switches are also described as low-pitched, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. While both switches have similarities in terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer a more distinct thocky sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to gaming sessions. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are often described as buttery and creamy. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Moreover, the creamy feel of these switches adds to the smoothness and ease of typing, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. These characteristics can be attributed to lubrication applied at the factory and specific materials used in the switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switches are noted for their textured and stiff feel. The textured switches have noticeable friction when pressed, which can be preferred by some users, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and/or bottom-out compared to other switches, giving them a stiffer feel. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer a smoother and more effortless typing experience compared to the MX Black switches.
Considering the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switches offer a unique gaming experience with their lightning-fast responsiveness, enhanced RGB lighting, and distinguished sound and feel characteristics. They provide a bassy and thocky sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to gaming sessions. The buttery and creamy feel of these switches ensures a seamless and effortless typing experience, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. While the Cherry MX Black switches also offer a low-pitched sound profile and have their merits in terms of textured switches, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches provide a more distinct and enjoyable sound and feel. However, it's important to note that individual preferences may vary, and other factors such as choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prioritize a light and responsive switch for gaming, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch would be an excellent choice. With its low bottom out force of 50 grams and shorter travel distance, it offers lightning-fast responsiveness, giving you a competitive edge in gaming. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a bass-heavy and thocky sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. Its buttery and creamy feel further enhances the typing experience, providing a seamless and effortless sensation. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is a budget-friendly option that offers unmatched value and ultimate gaming performance.
On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch and prioritize a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black linear switch would be a suitable choice. With an 80-gram bottom out force, the MX Black offers a heavier typing experience that may be preferred by some users. Its low-pitched sound profile adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone to your typing sessions. However, it is important to note that the MX Black switch has a textured feel, which means it has noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may find this desirable for added tactile feedback, while others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. If you prioritize a heavier switch and enjoy the textured feel, the Cherry MX Black could be the switch for you.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Cherry MX Black comes down to personal preference. Consider your priorities in gaming performance, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences. In any case, both switches offer their unique advantages and can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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