Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, gamers often find themselves at a crossroads, weighing the benefits of different switch types. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are celebrated for their rapid responsiveness, characterized by a shorter travel distance of just 3.4mm, making them an excellent choice for competitive gaming. These linear switches not only provide exceptional tactile smoothness but also come with vibrant RGB lighting that can enhance the visual aesthetics of any gaming setup. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches, recently reissued as part of the MX2A generation, offer a slightly different experience, appealing to users who favor a more refined feel and responsive action. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver excels in speed and auditory excitement, the MX Orange might cater to those who appreciate a return to a classic switch design with modern enhancements. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Cherry MX Orange, distinct differences emerge, particularly in the choice of materials for the top housing. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This material promotes a sharper and crisper sound profile, enhancing the auditory feedback during typing. The polycarbonate's ability to let RGB lighting shine through adds an aesthetic element that many gamers and typists appreciate, effectively blending both performance and visual appeal. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange uses nylon for its top housing, which yields a deeper and rounder sound due to the softer nature of nylon. This choice results in a more muted auditory experience, providing a different tactile feedback and acoustic signature during use.
Despite the differences in the top housing materials, the bottoms for both switches reveal a shared characteristic: they utilize nylon. Both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Cherry MX Orange have nylon as their bottom housing material, which contributes to a fuller and warmer sound profile. Because nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, users can expect a similarity in the sound quality during bottom-out events with both switches. The impact of the nylon bottom housing is particularly significant, as it can dampen the sound produced when keys are pressed down, creating a less harsh acoustic experience during typing sessions.
In summary, the contrasting top housing materials lead to differences in the auditory characteristics of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Cherry MX Orange. While both switches may deliver a fuller sound profile due to their nylon bottom housings, the polycarbonate top of the G Pro switch introduces a sharper and more resonant quality, especially noticeable when releasing the key. Therefore, while both switches can produce satisfying acoustic feedback, their overall sound profiles differ, with the G Pro leaning towards brightness and clarity, and the MX Orange offering depth and warmth. Ultimately, for users seeking specific auditory experiences, the choice between these two switches will hinge on the desired mix of sound quality and tactile feel.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it well-suited for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, where ease of use is important. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, suggesting a heavier feel that might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is unknown, leaving some uncertainty in its overall performance. Overall, those seeking a lighter touch will gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 Silver, while those who appreciate a firmer push may lean towards the Cherry MX Orange.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch measures 3.4 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a shorter and potentially more responsive keystroke, catering to gamers who favor quick reactions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial and traditional feel, appealing to those who appreciate a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference; if you prioritize speedy response times, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the better option, whereas if you favor a more pronounced keystroke depth, the MX Orange could be more suited to your needs.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 stand out with a richly bassy and low-pitched auditory profile. The deep thocky sound they produce offers a satisfying experience with each keystroke, delivering a thumping "thud" that can make typing or gaming feel more impactful. This sound quality contributes to an immersive experience, especially in gaming, aligning well with a vibrant atmosphere due to the RGB lighting they support. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches do not have any specific sound descriptions available, leaving their acoustic qualities somewhat ambiguous. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound produced by any switch can also depend heavily on the keyboard used and the keycap materials.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches shine with a buttery and creamy tactile sensation. This smooth and fluid typing experience allows for effortless keystrokes, as if your fingers glide seamlessly across the keys. The textured experience makes it not only enjoyable for gaming but also for long typing sessions. The feel is often enhanced by underlying materials used in the switch, leading to a silky characteristic that many users appreciate. As with the sound, Cherry MX Orange switches lack specific descriptions regarding their tactile feel, which leaves a gap in understanding how they compare in this respect.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer a compelling mix of auditory and tactile experiences, setting them apart as an excellent choice for gamers, thanks to their quick responsiveness and satisfying sound and feel. The Cherry MX Orange switches, while reissued and potentially enhanced, remain less defined in terms of sound and tactile feedback. If you're prioritizing those qualities, the G Pro 3.0 Silver might be the safer bet, though more information about the MX Orange’s properties would be beneficial for a complete comparison. Regardless, both switches can yield positive results in terms of performance, depending on your preferences and other components of your setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange switch, your specific needs and preferences will play a significant role. If you're a gamer seeking rapid response times and a light keystroke — ideal for fast-paced gameplay — the G Pro 3.0 Silver is your best bet. With its shorter travel distance and low actuation force of 50 grams, this switch will enhance your gaming performance and provide a satisfying thocky sound profile that can add excitement to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience for daily use or casual gaming, you might lean towards the Cherry MX Orange. Although the bottom-out force is not specified, the traditional Cherry quality and feel are renowned for their reliability and comfort during prolonged typing sessions. In essence, choose the G Pro 3.0 Silver for an exhilarating, gaming-centric experience, and opt for the Cherry MX Orange when looking for a well-rounded switch that excels in general use.
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