Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique advantages for different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is perfect for gamers looking for lightning-fast responsiveness, thanks to its shorter travel distance and vibrant RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° caters to those who prioritize silent typing with its innovative design that reduces noise while providing smoothness and stability. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches have the same material for their top housing, they may differ in terms of design and functionality.
In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Zero Degree 0° both use nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite having the same material for their bottom housing, there may still be differences in the typing experience and overall feel of the switches.
It is worth noting that the qualities of each housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, will impact the sound and feel of the switches differently. The bottom housing will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Zero Degree 0° may share similar housing materials, the overall typing experience and sound profiles may vary based on the design and construction of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force for the Zero Degree 0° switch is unknown. In terms of weight, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter with its 50-gram bottom out force compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch. The actuation force being the same means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of when the key is triggered. The difference in bottom out force may affect the overall feel and feedback of typing on the switches, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver offering a slightly heavier touch when fully pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both offer different travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Zero Degree 0° has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0°. When comparing the two, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would offer a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for a faster input. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° with its slightly longer travel distance may offer a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and 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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during gaming sessions. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch remains unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, both switches offer a silent typing experience that reduces noise, making them suitable for shared or quiet environments.
Moving on to the feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is praised for its buttery and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that enhances the overall comfort and satisfaction during use. In contrast, the feel of the Zero Degree 0° switch is unspecified, leaving a gap in comparison with the G Pro 3.0 Silver in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
Overall, if we consider the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch stands out for its exceptional gaming performance, lightning-fast responsiveness, and vibrant RGB lighting, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for a budget-friendly option. The Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, while revolutionizing silent typing with its innovative design, lacks specific details on sound and feel, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison. Therefore, to achieve a similar level of gaming performance and typing experience to the G Pro 3.0 Silver, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° may offer comparable results in terms of smoothness, stability, and quiet operation.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should opt for the G Pro 3.0 Silver if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a light bottom out force, faster responsiveness, vibrant RGB lighting, and an exhilarating auditory experience during gaming. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° would be more suitable if you prioritize silent typing, smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel when typing. Consider your priorities and preferences carefully to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different needs and preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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