Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is widely recognized for its superb gaming performance. Coming from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro range, these switches offer unparalleled value and an exceptional gaming experience. With a shortened travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive edge. Furthermore, its vibrant RGB lighting, enhanced by the frosted light diffuser, adds a captivating visual element, while the medium-high pitch delivers an exhilarating auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, also a linear switch, brings innovation to the table. It earns its semi-silent title with its whisper-quiet actuation, while still maintaining a satisfying clacky bottom-out sound. Known for its silky smooth type feel, this switch strikes the perfect balance between a polished glide and a subtle tactile response. Both switches have their unique qualities, and while these general descriptions provide a great starting point, let's dive deeper into their characteristics to help you determine which switch best suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear both feature polycarbonate top housings. This means that both switches will have a similar sound profile, characterized by sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sounds. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing experience. The use of polycarbonate in both switches also suggests a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound quality when pressing down on keys for both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Semi-Silent Linear.
Although both switches have similar qualities in their top and bottom housing materials, it is important to note that the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Conversely, the bottom housing will play a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switches. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Semi-Silent Linear offer comparable sound profiles due to their shared use of polycarbonate and nylon, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. In contrast, the actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear switch is currently unavailable, making it difficult to assess precisely. However, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Silver is slightly heavier at 50 grams, providing a bit more resistance when fully pressing the switch. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a medium level of resistance for individuals who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. It is worth mentioning that although we don't have the precise actuation force for the Semi-Silent Linear switch, the heavier bottom out force suggests that it will likely require a somewhat stronger push than the G Pro 3.0 Silver. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter switch may gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 Silver, while individuals seeking a slightly more resistant typing experience may find the Semi-Silent Linear switch to be a better fit.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch have contrasting travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered the more traditional option. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This can be a significant difference for some users, as the 3.0mm of the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a shallower feel, while the 3.7mm of the Semi-Silent Linear offers a bit more depth. Gamers, in particular, tend to lean towards switches with shorter travel distances for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more pronounced and solid keystroke, the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired feel during typing or gaming. Both options have their own advantages, so users can expect satisfying results regardless of the choice made.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The low-pitched nature of the sound adds a mellow and bass-heavy tone to the overall auditory experience. Additionally, the thocky characteristic provides a deep, satisfying, and almost "knocking" sound when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offers a more subdued sound. While not completely silent, they produce a dampened and subtle sound during use. The semi-silent quality comes from the whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. This switch achieves a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes, from beginner to advanced users, and whether used at home or in a work environment. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is described as providing a buttery and creamy typing experience. These switches offer a smooth, fluid, and uniform keystroke sensation. The buttery quality implies a seamless and effortless typing experience, where each keystroke feels smooth and fluid. The creamy feel could be due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, as they melt into each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild and snappy typing experience. The mild nature of the switch provides a gentle typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a more approachable feel. The snappy characteristic indicates super responsiveness, making the typing experience feel more alive. Additionally, the switch can also be described as buttery and polished, offering a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction, ensuring smooth key travel during typing.
Based on the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, accompanied by a buttery and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued sound, neutral in nature, while providing a mild and snappy typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics, ensuring a customized typing experience based on the user's preferences. However, it's important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used, as they can influence the overall sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, individuals seeking similar results in terms of sound and feel can expect comparable experiences with these switches.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prioritize lightning-fast responsiveness, a competitive gaming advantage, and vibrant RGB lighting, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer exceptional value and are perfect for gamers looking for an immersive experience without breaking the bank. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches have a light bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a soft and effortless typing experience. In terms of sound, they produce a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound that adds depth and richness to your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued sound profile with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch would be the better option. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. Overall, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and requirements for gaming or typing.
Mentioned in this article
