Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and Dareu Snow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is renowned for its lightning-fast responsiveness and exceptional gaming experience, thanks to its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. With vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch that adds an exciting auditory element, this switch is ideal for gamers seeking optimal performance without a hefty price tag. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow also a linear switch, stands out for its innovative use of POK material in its construction, resulting in a deeper sound signature during typing. Known for its smooth feel, this switch is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
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 Dareu Snow both feature polycarbonate top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow's POK top housing, made of polyketone, offers a smooth and clacky typing experience with exceptional durability. The POK material is known for its wear resistance, surpassing other materials like POM and Nylon, making it a top choice for creating long-lasting and reliable switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Dareu Snow utilize nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This classic switch housing material provides a unique typing experience that enhances the overall sound and feel of the switches. Both keyboards benefit from the use of nylon in their bottom housings, contributing to a satisfying typing experience.
While the housings of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Dareu Snow may differ in material, the qualities each housing material brings to the switch impacts the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Both keyboards offer a variety of benefits from their housing materials, from creating a sharp and resonant sound with polycarbonate to providing a smooth and durable typing experience with POK and nylon. Ultimately, the choice between these keyboards will depend on personal preferences for sound profile, durability, and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, we find that the G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Dareu Snow is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the ideal choice as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more tactile and substantial typing experience may lean towards the Dareu Snow due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel despite the variance in actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. The G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a bit more cushion and tactile feedback compared to the Snow switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness desired. Both switches will offer similar results in terms of performance, with the only noticeable difference being the slightly longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched characteristics, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses, enhancing the overall auditory experience during gaming. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch also provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, with a deeper sound signature when typing, creating a satisfying and mellow tone. Both switches offer a pleasing sound profile, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver leaning towards a bass-heavy resonance, while the Snow switch focuses on a richer and deeper sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless, effortless, and uniform. This enhances the typing sensation, making it comfortable and enjoyable for extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like and lively feedback sensation, giving the keys a rebound effect when pressed. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver focusing on smoothness and uniformity, while the Snow switch prioritizes a lively and responsive feel.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver excels in providing a bass-heavy sound profile and a buttery typing experience, ideal for gamers seeking a responsive and immersive gaming environment. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch stands out with its deep and rich sound signature and bouncy tactile feedback, offering a different typing feel for those looking for a lively and responsive key press. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing and gaming experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, your decision may depend on your specific preferences and needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting for an exceptional gaming experience, then the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound signature and innovative use of POK material for a smooth linear typing experience, the Dareu Snow switch could be the perfect fit. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and usage scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to what characteristics matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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