Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that offer distinct experiences are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The G Pro 3.0 Silver is a linear switch known for its exceptional gaming performance. With a shorter travel distance and lightning-fast responsiveness, these switches provide a competitive advantage for gamers. Additionally, the vibrant RGB lighting and medium-high pitch add an exhilarating element to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch that offers maximum tactility. Typing on these switches provides a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack. If you want a switch that delivers a punchy and invigorating typing experience, the POM T1 is a great choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch 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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in their housing materials, leading to distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffer plastic material resonates more clearly, resulting in a more distinct sound experience. Additionally, its clear housing allows for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch.
On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM top housing. POM housings offer a unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. While not as sharp as the polycarbonate housing, POM creates an incredibly pleasing sound that is different from the norm. Its muted nature contributes to a more subdued typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter keyboard operation.
In terms of bottom housings, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is constructed with a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic material of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This can be appealing to individuals seeking a softer typing experience with a fuller sound.
Similarly, the POM T1 (Sunflower) also features a POM bottom housing, contributing to its unique and pleasing sound profile. With a deeper sound and relatively more muted characteristics, the POM bottom housing complements the POM top housing in delivering an overall consistent sound experience.
While each switch has different housing materials for the top and bottom, it is important to note that the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Thus, both switches offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetics, providing users with varied options depending on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is clear that there are significant differences between the two. The G Pro 3.0 Silver boasts a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a smooth and effortless keystroke initiation. In contrast, the POM T1's actuation force remains unknown, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison.
However, when examining the bottom out force, we see that the G Pro 3.0 Silver requires 50 grams of force to fully depress the key, providing a slightly more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 offers a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a heavier and more pronounced keystroke impact.
Weight is an important factor to consider when selecting a switch, as it can greatly influence the typing experience. Some individuals prefer a lighter switch, such as the G Pro 3.0 Silver, as it allows for extended typing sessions without causing as much fatigue. This can be particularly useful for those who use their keyboard for work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions.
However, for those who prefer a more tactile and forceful typing experience, a switch like the POM T1 with its heavier bottom out force may be the desired choice. This provides a greater sense of feedback and can be satisfying for individuals seeking a more substantial keystroke feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a medium-heavy bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver offering a lighter typing experience and the POM T1 delivering a more pronounced and forceful keystroke.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience in terms of how far the switch travels when pressed. Whether you prefer the linear feel of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver or the tactile response of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), you can expect the same travel distance of 4 mm from both switches.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 described as having a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. These switches produce a deep and rich sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound is mellow and offers a satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches have a resonant sound profile. Typing on these switches provides a higher-pitched and sharp sound experience. The sound profile is clean and immersive, offering a satisfying clack. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also depend on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are described as buttery and creamy. These switches provide a smooth and effortless typing experience with a seamless and uniform sensation. Typing on these switches feels like gliding fingers across the keys with ease, as each keystroke melts effortlessly into the switch. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches offer a sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feel. These switches provide a high feedback intensity with a distinct and prominent tactile bump felt with each keypress. The tactile sensation is neither overwhelming nor subtle, creating a satisfying and responsive typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are best known for their bassy and low-pitched sound profile, as well as their buttery and creamy feel. They offer a deep and rich auditory experience, along with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches have a resonant sound profile and provide a sharp and accented tactile feel. They offer a clean and sharp sound, along with a satisfying and distinct tactile feedback. Both switches provide unique qualities and selecting between them would depend on personal preference for sound and feel. However, if you're looking for a similar auditory experience, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches can offer a comparable sound profile to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches, while still providing their distinct tactile feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a budget-friendly switch that offers lightning-fast responsiveness and an exceptional gaming experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are the way to go. With a shorter travel distance and vibrant RGB lighting, these switches provide a competitive advantage and an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. They are best known for their bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, as well as their buttery and creamy typing experience.
On the other hand, if maximum tactility is what you seek, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches are the perfect choice. These switches offer a sharp tactile bump and a satisfying clean clack when typing. They have a medium-heavy bottom out force and a resonant, higher-pitched sound profile. The POM T1 switches are described as sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, providing a distinctive and immersive typing sensation.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches and the Durock POM T1 switches comes down to your specific preferences and needs. Consider whether you prioritize gaming performance and a smooth typing experience or maximum tactility and a sharp sound profile. Both switches excel in their respective areas, ensuring an enjoyable and personalized typing experience.
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