Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is ideal for gamers looking for a budget-friendly option with lightning-fast responsiveness due to its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. The vibrant RGB lighting and medium-high pitch add to the immersive gaming experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switches are perfect for typing enthusiasts seeking a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes provided by their fully nylon construction. While both switches have their strengths, determining the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing while the Outemu Cold Plum utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Silver creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the deeper and fuller sound profile elicited by the nylon top housing of the Cold Plum. While polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that results in a more clear and resonant sound, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound overall. Both materials offer distinct sound profiles, providing users with different auditory experiences based on their preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Outemu Cold Plum make use of nylon. This material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounded sound. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, the overall sound and feel of the switches may still vary based on other factors such as stem design and spring weight. However, users can expect a consistent deep and full sound profile when utilizing switches with nylon bottom housings.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Outemu Cold Plum employ different housing materials for their top and bottom components, both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a clearer and more resonant sound, whereas the nylon top housing of the Cold Plum produces a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a muted and rounded sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both options cater to different preferences in switch sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it becomes apparent that the G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter in terms of required force. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding the desired typing experience, with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver being lighter and the Outemu Cold Plum being heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Cold Plum switch a popular choice for gaming. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Cold Plum switch to feel abrupt, while the slightly longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch may offer a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a more substantial depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel 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 Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is not described in the provided information, so it's unclear how it compares in terms of sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience with a seamless and uniform sensation. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is not described in the information provided, so it's unknown how its typing feel compares to the G Pro 3.0 Silver. It's essential for newcomers to consider the tactile feedback and smoothness of switches when choosing the right one for their preferences.
Taking into account the provided information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offers a gaming-focused experience with fast responsiveness, vibrant RGB lighting, and a medium-high pitch sound profile. It provides a buttery and creamy typing feel that enhances the overall gaming and typing experience. While the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its thocky sound and unique typing feel with a fully nylon construction, its comparison to the G Pro 3.0 Silver in terms of sound and feel remains unclear. Ultimately, both switches can offer a satisfying experience, and choosing between them will depend on personal preference and the specific qualities that users prioritize in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch designed for gaming with fast responsiveness and RGB lighting, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique thocky sound profile with a smooth typing feel, the Outemu Cold Plum switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences as a mechanical keyboard user.
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