Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Cherry MX Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both may seem like similar linear switches at first glance. The G Pro 3.0 Silver stands out for its budget-friendly price point and shorter travel distance, offering lightning-fast responsiveness ideal for gamers seeking a competitive edge. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver boasts maximum speed with its linear action and low spring resistance, crucial for gamers where split-second decisions can determine victory. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver providing an exhilarating auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting, while the MX Speed Silver focuses on rapid response and textured typing 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Cherry MX Speed Silver both utilize nylon as the material for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The nylon material's softness allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder overall sound. This similarity means that users can expect a similar typing experience when it comes to the sound and feel of the switches, with both offering a satisfyingly deep sound profile.
However, where the two switches differ is in their top housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing, which also brings a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. While both plastics offer their unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate housing of the G Pro 3.0 may provide a slightly different typing experience compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Cherry MX Speed Silver will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound thanks to their nylon bottom housings, the difference in their top housing materials may result in varying sound profiles during typing. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both switches are reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch with a lighter actuation force of 30 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams for the G Pro 3.0 Silver, while the bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the MX Speed Silver may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be favored by those who prefer a slightly more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force. Overall, both switches offer different options for users based on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Consequently, the typing experience between the two switches in terms of travel distance will yield similar results. It is worth noting that both switches offer a swift and smooth linear typing experience, making them ideal choices for gamers and typists who prefer fast and precise key presses.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches have a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory experience during key presses. The G Pro 3.0 Silver adds a bassy element to its sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone compared to the MX Speed Silver. However, sound can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is noted for its buttery and creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that is seamless and effortless. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is described as having a textured feel, implying noticeable friction when pressed. While some users may prefer the textured feel for added feedback, others may prefer the smoother typing experience offered by the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches offer excellent gaming performance with their linear action and low spring resistance, allowing for rapid response times that can make a difference in competitive gameplay. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver emphasizes a bassy sound and a buttery feel, the MX Speed Silver focuses on a thocky sound and a textured feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and specific gaming needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider your priorities. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting for an enhanced gaming experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum speed and instant triggering for competitive gaming where split-second decisions matter, the MX Speed Silver is your best bet. Both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile sensations, so choose based on your preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, make your decision based on what features and characteristics are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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