Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Duck are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer different experiences depending on your preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is best known for its exceptional gaming performance at an affordable price. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive advantage. The vibrant RGB lighting, enhanced by the frosted light diffuser, adds an attractive visual element to your gaming setup, while the medium-high pitch delivers an exhilarating auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck, a tactile switch, offers a more subtle and satisfying typing experience. The gentle tactility and clean, crispy sound profile make it perfect for those who prefer a quieter and smooth typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
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 Duck both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, which results in a similar sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound that is particularly enhanced when used with RGB lighting. This translucent material allows for the vibrant illumination of the switches and adds an aesthetic appeal to your keyboard setup. Both switches take advantage of these qualities to deliver a satisfying auditory experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a contrast between the two switches. The G Pro 3.0 Silver employs a nylon bottom housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, thus dampening the impact and producing a duller, rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which reinforces the clear and resonant sound produced by this stiffer material. The bottom-out sound and feel of the switches are affected by the qualities of the bottom housing, providing a noticeable distinction between the two switches.
It is worth noting that while the top and bottom housings of the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Duck differ, they both contribute to the overall sound characteristics of the switches. The bottom housing emphasizes the sound when a key is pressed down, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Despite the disparities between their bottom housings, the qualities of polycarbonate are still present in both switches, ensuring a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of sound performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This lighter weight can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a keyboard that allows for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has an unknown actuation force, but a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, which provides a more substantial typing experience. Some users may find this heavier force preferable for a more pronounced key press. While their actuation forces differ, both switches ultimately offer a similar result - triggering a keystroke. However, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter overall, while the SP-Star Duck is heavier in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's personal preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have similar travel distances of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable amount of key travel, allowing for precise and responsive typing or gaming experiences. Therefore, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Duck, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 switch is known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. These switches offer a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock". On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch has a neutral sound profile, meaning it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. The sound produced by the Duck switch is clean and crispy, providing a more subtle tactile typing experience. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also depend on other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The Duck switch, on the other hand, has a mild and buttery feel. It offers a more gentle typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a switch with less pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Duck switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and SP-Star Duck switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, while providing a buttery and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck switch has a neutral sound profile with a clean and crispy sound, and offers a mild and buttery typing experience with a polished finish. It is important to consider personal preferences and other factors when choosing between these switches, but both options can provide enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that offers lightning-fast responsiveness and 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 give you a competitive advantage without breaking the bank. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches have a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, making each key press deep, rich, and satisfying. In terms of feel, these switches provide a buttery and creamy typing experience, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck tactile switches are perfect for you. These switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. With a mild and buttery feel, the typing experience on the Duck switches is gentle and approachable to most users. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Duck tactile switches depends on your specific preferences and needs. If you prioritize gaming performance and want a more pronounced sound profile, go for the G Pro 3.0 Silver. However, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a polished finish, the Duck switches are the better option for you. Consider your desired feel and sound, and choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
