Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Embark on a gaming odyssey with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, and the Kailh Sage, a clicky switch, as they each offer their unique advantages for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro lineup, is best known for its unmatched value and exceptional gaming experience. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness and give gamers a competitive advantage. The vibrant RGB lighting, enhanced by the frosted light diffuser, illuminates your gaming setup, while the medium-high pitch adds an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch offers a distinct clicky typing experience. With a refreshing sharpness and a weight that feels quite heavy, typing on the Sage switch provides an invigorating and crunchy feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
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 and the Kailh Sage both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in similar sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Consequently, whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Kailh Sage, you can expect a comparable sound experience, especially when using RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon, which delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. For typing purposes, this brings a satisfying depth to the overall sound produced by the switches. So, whether you opt for the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Sage, you can enjoy a similar typing experience with a rich and fuller sound.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of a switch. Pressing down on the switch will primarily exhibit the characteristics of the bottom housing. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing has a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. Thus, understanding the distribution of housing materials can help users discern the nuances in sound and tactile feedback between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Kailh Sage.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we can see some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it easier to trigger a keystroke without applying too much pressure. In contrast, the actuation force of the Sage is unknown, but it is safe to assume that it would be similar to or slightly heavier than the G Pro 3.0 Silver due to it being a clicky switch.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Silver requires 50 grams of force to fully press the switch down. This means that typing or gaming on this switch might feel more substantial compared to a lighter switch, providing a more satisfying experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is noticeably heavier. This signifies that the Sage switch would provide a more pronounced and tactile typing experience, requiring users to exert more force to fully actuate the switch.
Therefore, in terms of weight, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Kailh Sage. This lighter weight makes it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, enabling them to type for longer periods of time without fatigue. However, if one desires a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Sage would be a suitable choice. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch have contrasting travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a traditional and deeper travel distance. On the other hand, the Sage has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shallower and more preferred by gamers for faster response times. If you prioritize a more responsive and quick typing experience, the Sage with its shorter travel distance would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys, the G Pro 3.0 Silver with its longer travel distance would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is best known for its exceptional gaming experience, offering unmatched value and lightning-fast responsiveness. In terms of sound, these switches are described as having a medium-high pitch, adding an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. The sound profile of the G Pro 3.0 Silver can be characterized as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is best known for its distinct clicky typing experience. These switches offer a refreshingly sharp clickiness and are described as crunchy, sounding like stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. However, they are not described in terms of sound characteristics such as bassiness or pitch.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. These switches offer a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. In contrast, the Kailh Sage is described as invigorating and sharp. They offer pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation with a distinctive and crisp tactile bump.
Based on the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offers a unique gaming experience with its lightning-fast responsiveness, medium-high pitch sound profile, and buttery, smooth feel. However, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a refreshingly sharp clickiness, the Kailh Sage switch may be a better option. Keep in mind that the sound characteristics of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting for gaming, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is a great choice. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams and shorter travel distance, it provides an exceptional gaming experience at an unmatched value. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is best known for its deep and rich sound profile, making each key press satisfyingly bassy and thocky. In terms of feel, it offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, described as buttery and creamy.
On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, it provides a refreshing sharp clickiness. The Sage switch is known for its crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. It offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feel, with pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive typing sensation.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch depends on your preferences and specific needs. Consider factors such as gaming vs. typing, budget, sound profile, and tactile feel to make an informed decision.
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