Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock Ice King Tactile stand out for their unique characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch that is perfect for delicate typists looking for a light actuation force of 38g, providing effortless and sensitive keystrokes. It offers a bright RGB lighting experience and a satisfying auditory feedback, making it a budget-friendly option without compromising on the premium typing feel. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile is a tactile switch that elevates tactile typing to an art form with its creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, offering a uniquely satisfying tactile experience. While the G Pro White is 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Silky', the Ice King Tactile is 'Frictionless', 'Stepped', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
68g
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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock Ice King Tactile both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. However, the Ice King Tactile distinguishes itself with a nylon bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 White's nylon bottom housing. While both switches use nylon in their bottom housings, the difference in top housing materials could result in a slightly varied typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 White offering a clearer and resonant sound profile when releasing a key.
In terms of aesthetics, the G Pro 3.0 White's polycarbonate top housing allows for translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing provides a more classic look without the translucent effect. Both switches offer durability and reliability with their housing materials, but the choice between polycarbonate and nylon may ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock Ice King Tactile play a crucial role in shaping their sound profiles and tactile feedback. While both switches use nylon in their bottom housings to create a deeper sound, the G Pro 3.0 White's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper sound profile compared to the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with RGB lighting capabilities or a fuller sound with a more classic design, the choice between these switches ultimately boils down to individual preferences in typing experience and aesthetic appeal.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch reveals distinct differences in weight. The G Pro 3.0 White features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a smoother and lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile boasts a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing sensation. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 White, while individuals seeking a more robust and satisfying keystroke may opt for the heavier Ice King Tactile. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with distinct options to suit their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The G Pro 3.0 White offers a slightly longer travel distance, making it suitable for those who prefer a bit more depth when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile provides a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches have their own advantages, with the G Pro 3.0 White offering a traditional feel and the Ice King Tactile catering to those who prioritize speed. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance.
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 Tactile 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 Tactile 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 is known for its clacky and medium-high pitch sound profile, providing a crisp and bright feedback with each press. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile offers a more subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces where noise may be a concern. Depending on the user's preference for sound and working environment, the G Pro 3.0 White may be more suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback, while the Ice King Tactile may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White is known for its creamy, easy-to-press, and feathery qualities, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal exertion required from the fingers. The Durock Ice King Tactile, on the other hand, is described as silky, frictionless, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Depending on the user's preference for typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 White may be more suitable for those who prioritize light actuation force and gentle resistance, while the Ice King Tactile may appeal to those looking for a fluid and polished typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 White provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback and light actuation force. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile offers a more subdued sound and a silky typing feel, catering to users who prefer a quieter typing experience with smooth and effortless key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a typist who prefers a light actuation force and a clacky sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be a great choice for you. The creamy and easy-to-press feel of this switch offers a smooth and effortless typing experience, ideal for delicate typists looking for a budget-friendly option with a bright RGB lighting. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a subdued sound profile, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch may be more suitable for you. The silky and frictionless feel of this switch, combined with its polished finish, provides a uniquely satisfying and smooth tactile typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferred actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel to ensure the best possible keyboard switch for your needs.
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