Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, part of Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro lineup, offers exceptional gaming performance at an unmatched value. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, these linear switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive advantage. Additionally, the vibrant RGB lighting and frosted light diffuser add a visually appealing touch to any gaming setup. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are favored by those who prefer a bouncy typing experience. With a clean and clacky sound profile, these linear switches deliver a unique auditory element to your typing sessions. Categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Thocky', the Polaris Gray switches offer a neutral and mild feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Polaris Gray both have polycarbonate top housings, which means they offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a clear and resonant sound while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be more effectively showcased, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Silver features a nylon material, while the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that when typing on the G Pro 3.0 Silver, the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the nylon material, offering a duller and rounder experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray will provide a sharper and crisper sound profile, aligning with the characteristics of its top housing.
In summary, while both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Polaris Gray share a polycarbonate top housing, their bottom housings differ. As a result, users can expect a variation in sound and feel when pressing down on the switches. The G Pro 3.0 Silver with its nylon bottom housing will deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Polaris Gray with its polycarbonate bottom housing will produce a sharper and more resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch to the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, we can observe some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Silver requires 50 grams of force, which is also relatively light. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy in comparison.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be a suitable choice as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for effortless keystrokes. This lightweight nature is advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or extensive gaming sessions. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback, the Polaris Gray with its heavier bottom out force presents a better option. The added resistance can provide a satisfying push feel while typing, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the G Pro 3.0 Silver contribute to a smoother and faster typing experience, while the medium-heavy bottom out force of the Polaris Gray offers a more substantial and tactile feel. It is important to consider one's personal preference and typing style when choosing between these switches to ensure a satisfying and enjoyable keyboarding experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users can expect to feel a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. Thus, whether opting for the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Polaris Gray, the results will be similar as both switches offer an identical 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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches can be characterized as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky. These switches produce a deeper and richer sound during key presses, similar to the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The low-pitched sound adds a mellow and bass-heavy element to the overall auditory experience, while the thocky characteristic provides a deep, satisfying "thud" or soft "knock" when the keys are pressed and released. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches also have a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. The low-pitched sound gives a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the thocky quality provides a deep and rich sound when the keys are pressed and released. Overall, both switches offer a similar sound experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches possibly having a slightly bassier tone.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are described as buttery and creamy. The buttery characteristic implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The creamy quality indicates a smooth and buttery typing experience, possibly due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used. Typing on these switches provides a silky sensation, gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. Conversely, the Polaris Gray switches have a mild and polished feel. The mild characteristic offers a gentle typing experience, approachable to most users due to its safe, middle-ground zone. The polished quality indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches possibly having a more pronounced smoothness due to the creamy characteristic.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches offer comparable sound profiles and tactile experiences. Both switches have a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, providing a bass-heavy, mellow, and satisfying auditory experience during key presses. Similarly, both switches offer a smooth and seamless typing sensation, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches possibly having a more pronounced smoothness due to the creamy characteristic. Whether choosing the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Polaris Gray switches, users can expect a satisfying gaming or typing experience, with slight variations based on personal preference.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers lightning-fast responsiveness and exceptional gaming performance, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams and shorter travel distance, these switches provide a competitive advantage for gamers. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience during key presses. Furthermore, the switch is described as buttery and creamy in terms of feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience and a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be a suitable option for you. These switches are known for their clean and clacky sound profile, which is low-pitched and thocky. They are also described as having a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches depends on your preferences and specific needs. Consider factors such as gaming requirements, typing style, and desired sound and feel when making your decision.
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