Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Polaris Purple are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct experiences for users. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is renowned for its exceptional gaming performance. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, these switches deliver lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive edge. Additionally, the vibrant RGB lighting and medium-high pitch add visual and auditory excitement to gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple, a tactile switch, provides a satisfying typing experience with its big tactile bump. The snappy sound profile adds to the overall enjoyment. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver focuses on gaming, the Polaris Purple prioritizes the typing experience. However, let's delve deeper into the specific characteristics and qualities of each switch to help you make the best choice for your 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 Purple share a similar housing material for their top housings: polycarbonate. This choice of material offers several advantages. Firstly, polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the auditory experience of typing. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency is particularly useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and visually appealing effects. Both switches feature clear top housings, signaling the presence of polycarbonate and its associated benefits.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Silver and Polaris Purple differ in their chosen materials. The G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Purple opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, typing on the G Pro 3.0 Silver will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, adding a touch of richness to the auditory feedback. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple aligns with its top housing, offering a consistent sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper.
It is worth noting that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the respective switches. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing will contribute to the bottom-out sound and the tactile feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing will have a more pronounced impact on the sound produced. While the specific nuances may differ due to their respective housing materials, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and Polaris Purple provide distinct and satisfying auditory feedback during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing them to type for extended periods without strain. In contrast, the Polaris Purple switch's actuation force is not specified, but it has a relatively heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. This makes it a good choice for those who desire a more substantial typing experience. While the exact actuation force for the Polaris Purple switch is unknown, we can infer that it is likely to be higher than 45 grams, providing a noticeable difference compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key utilizing either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel, resulting in a similar typing experience. Therefore, both switches offer a consistent level of tactile feedback 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 SP-Star Polaris Purple 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 Purple 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are known for their bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. This means that the sound produced during key presses will have a deeper and richer tone with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound of these switches is often characterized by a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound level that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you're using them at home or work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are known for providing a buttery and creamy typing experience. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, creamy switches provide a silky sensation, as if you're gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. This smooth and buttery typing experience can be attributed to either lubricant applied in the switch at the factory or specific materials used. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches are described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. A mild switch provides a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most users. A polished switch, on the other hand, indicates a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches have a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, giving a deeper and richer sound during keypresses. They also provide a buttery and creamy typing experience, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switches have a neutral sound profile suitable for most purposes and offer a mild and polished typing experience that is approachable and smooth. Depending on your preferences, you can achieve similar results in sound and feel by selecting the appropriate switches.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are an avid gamer looking for a budget-friendly option that offers lightning-fast responsiveness, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams and shorter travel distance, it provides unmatched value and a competitive advantage in gaming. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. In terms of feel, this switch provides a buttery and creamy typing experience, ensuring a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a moderate-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is the perfect fit. Its big tactile bump delivers a satisfying typing experience, and the sound profile is described as snappy and neutral. The Polaris Purple offers a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch depends on your preferences and needs. If gaming performance and responsiveness are your top priorities, go for the G Pro 3.0 Silver. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience and prefer a moderate-heavy bottom out force, the Polaris Purple is the way to go. Consider your desired sound profile and feel when making your decision.
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