Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock Ice King Linear mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, we can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 White is praised for its budget-friendly option that caters to delicate typists with its light actuation force of 38g, allowing for effortless and sensitive keystrokes. It also features a frosted light diffuser for brighter RGB lighting and medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. While both switches offer a silky feel, the G Pro 3.0 White leans more towards being clacky and easy-to-press, whereas the Ice King Linear is described as frictionless and polished. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, so it's essential to delve deeper into their characteristics to make the best decision for your typing needs. 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
38g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock Ice King Linear, one key difference is the use of polycarbonate in the G Pro 3.0's top housing versus nylon in the Ice King Linear's top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. While both materials provide unique sound profiles, the choice between a sharper or duller sound will ultimately come down to personal preference.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 White and the Ice King Linear feature nylon materials. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic material absorbs more sound than harder plastics. While the bottom housing material may not be as immediately noticeable during typing as the top housing, it still plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, whether you opt for the G Pro 3.0 or the Ice King Linear, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom housing's impact on sound and feel.
In considering the overall impact of the housing materials on typing experience, it's important to note how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The G Pro 3.0 White's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing each contribute to a specific aspect of the sound profile and feel, with the top housing affecting the sound upon key release and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Similarly, the Ice King Linear's use of nylon in both top and bottom housings ensures a consistent typing experience where the softer plastic material enhances the overall sound profile. Ultimately, whether opting for the G Pro 3.0 White or the Ice King Linear, users can expect a unique and enjoyable typing experience based on the distinct qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch are quite different. The G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Ice King Linear has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 White will require a lighter touch to type on, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some users preferring the lighter touch of the G Pro 3.0 White and others opting for the heavier feel of the Ice King Linear.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, we can see that the G Pro 3.0 White has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ice King Linear has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The G Pro 3.0 White is the longer of the two switches with a more traditional travel distance, whereas the Ice King Linear is slightly shorter, providing a quicker response time. Gamers may prefer the Ice King Linear for its shorter travel distance, enabling faster reactions during gameplay. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more pronounced key press may opt for the G Pro 3.0 White with its slightly longer travel distance. In summary, while both switches offer similar results in terms of functionality, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference regarding travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White for $3.27.
The Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is known for its medium-high pitch providing a satisfying auditory feedback, described as somewhat clacky. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is known for a more subdued sound signature, offering a dampened sound when pressed. Depending on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps, both switches can provide a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses with a light actuation force of 38g, making typing effortless and comfortable. It also provides a creamy and feathery typing sensation, giving a smooth and buttery feel to typists. The Durock Ice King Linear switch, on the other hand, is described as silky and frictionless, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. With a full nylon construction alongside generous factory lube, the Ice King Linear switch offers a polished and refined finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 White switch provides a more audible and easy-to-press typing experience with a creamy feel, the Ice King Linear switch emphasizes a silky and frictionless feel with a subdued sound profile. Typists looking for a budget-friendly option with a light actuation force may prefer the G Pro 3.0 White switch, while those prioritizing a smoother and more refined typing experience may lean towards the Durock Ice King Linear switch. Ultimately, both switches offer pleasant typing experiences, catering to different preferences and needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch or the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, you should opt for the G Pro 3.0 White if you prefer a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, a clacky and subtly audible typing sound, and a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience. This switch is ideal for delicate typists who enjoy a lighter touch and prefer a more subdued sound profile. On the other hand, go for the Durock Ice King Linear if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force of 62 grams, a subdued and silky typing sound, and a super smooth and almost frictionless typing experience. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a bit more resistance and enjoy a quieter typing sound. Ultimately, your choice between these switches should be based on your personal preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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