Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Durock Light Tactile

Overview

Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock Light Tactile, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct advantages for different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 White is perfect for those who value a light and effortless typing experience. With an actuation force of only 38g, these linear switches provide sensitive keystrokes without requiring much effort. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, enhancing the overall visual experience. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile offers a completely different feel. Unlike the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market, this switch is exceptionally gentle with its tactility, providing a softer and more subtle tactile feedback. Furthermore, the jelly-like sound signature adds an unconventional touch to the typing experience. However, let's delve deeper into these switches to help you make an informed decision based on your preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 White Linear

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

$3.40

$3.27 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

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Housing materials

Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock Light Tactile, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material lends itself to a similar sound profile, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects in both switches. Therefore, if you prioritize a clear, resonant sound and plan to incorporate eye-catching RGB lighting, both switches will provide comparable results.

Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock Light Tactile feature nylon. Nylon is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Due to its relatively softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to a more subdued and mellower sound profile.

Despite sharing housing materials and therefore similar sound profiles, the distribution of these qualities differs between the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing has a more substantial impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing is more influential in the sound produced when releasing a key. While both switches provide similar sound characteristics overall, these nuances allow for slight variation in the typing experience depending on which specific aspect of the sound profile is preferred.

In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock Light Tactile share several similarities in their housing materials, resulting in comparable sound profiles—sharp, high-pitched, and crisp due to the polycarbonate top housing, and deeper and fuller due to the nylon bottom housing. The differences lie in the distribution of these qualities, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer a pleasing typing experience, making your choice between them a matter of personal preference regarding specific sound nuances.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, while the Light Tactile requires a more substantial 52 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, when bottoming out, the G Pro 3.0 White has a force of 45 grams, whereas the Light Tactile requires a heavier 67 grams.

The discrepancy in force between these switches offers distinct typing experiences for users. The G Pro 3.0 White's lighter actuation force allows for a quicker and easier keystroke initiation, making it ideal for individuals who prefer a light and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Light Tactile provides a more tactile feedback with its higher actuation force, appealing to those who desire a more substantial push feel while typing.

Consideration of the weight of these switches becomes crucial as it directly impacts the typing experience. Some users may opt for the G Pro 3.0 White due to its lighter weight, enabling them to type for extended periods without fatigue or strain. This makes it well-suited for long work sessions or intense gaming marathons. Conversely, individuals seeking a more robust typing experience might be inclined towards the Light Tactile due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. The added resistance can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and a stronger sense of keystroke registration.

It is important to note that while the G Pro 3.0 White and the Light Tactile switches differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, both can deliver excellent results depending on the user's preference. Ultimately, the selection between the two will rely on individual typing styles and desired typing experiences.

Travel distance

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the switch travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback. So, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 White or the Light Tactile, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and overall typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers multiple options. It can provide a clacky sound, which is sharp and snappy, offering a crisp and percussive auditory feedback when pressed. Alternatively, it also has a more neutral sound profile, suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced typist, and whether you plan to use it at home or at work. Lastly, the G Pro 3.0 White can produce a subdued sound, which is dampened and subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch is described with a more neutral sound. However, it should be noted that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a variety of sensations. It is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. This could be due to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. It also offers an easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 White switch can be described as feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and reduces strain on the fingers. It is also considered to be mild, offering a more gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Lastly, it provides a silky and subtle sensation, enhancing smoothness and minimizing resistance during key presses. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is not too pronounced. It is also said to have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 White provides options for clacky, neutral, and subdued sound profiles, while offering a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock offers a more neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience with a polished finish. It is important to note that the subjective qualities experienced can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, and depending on personal preferences, users can choose the one that suits their typing style and preferences best.

Conclusion

In summary, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider.

First, let's look at the bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 White has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is relatively light. On the other hand, the Light Tactile has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy. If you prefer a lighter touch and effortless keystrokes, the G Pro 3.0 White would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch and more feedback from your keystrokes, the Light Tactile may be more to your liking.

Moving on to sound, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. On the other hand, the Light Tactile has a neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for most purposes. If you enjoy a crisp and bright sound when typing, the G Pro 3.0 White is the way to go. However, if you prefer a more subdued and subtle sound signature, the Light Tactile would be a better choice.

When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle typing experience. These switches are smooth, low-impact, and reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Light Tactile offers a mild and polished typing experience. These switches have a gentle typing feel and a smooth, refined finish.

Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock Light Tactile comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a lighter touch, sharper sound, and a range of smooth typing experiences, the G Pro 3.0 White is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch, neutral sound, and a gentle yet polished typing experience, the Light Tactile is the switch for you.

Consider your typing style, preferences, and the overall experience you are looking for when choosing between these two switches. Keep in mind that both switches offer their own unique qualities, so it's important to choose the one that aligns with your individual needs.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 White Linear

$3.40

$3.27 per 10

Learn more

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more