Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Outemu Lime (V3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Outemu Lime (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Outemu Lime. Each switch offers a distinct typing experience, catering to different preferences and needs. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch, renowned for its budget-friendly price and delicate touch. With an actuation force of only 38g, typing becomes effortless and sensitive, making it ideal for those seeking a light and smooth keystroke. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser allows for vibrant RGB lighting, while the medium-high pitch provides an appealing auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Lime switch from Outemu is a tactile switch that boasts its lightweight nature and approachable tactility. These switches are perfect for tactile enthusiasts who crave a feathery light typing experience with a subtle touch of feedback. What sets the Lime switch apart is its silenced feature, reducing the noise of each keystroke, ensuring a tranquil work or gaming environment. However, let's delve deeper into each switch's qualities, allowing you to make a well-informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Outemu Lime have different housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. In comparison, the Lime has a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. While both switches have different sound profiles due to their top housings, they both offer a level of translucency that is useful for RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the G Pro 3.0 White and the Lime utilize nylon. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. As a result, both switches offer a similar sound experience when typing. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, so users can expect a consistent and satisfying typing experience with either switch.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Outemu Lime have different top housing materials, with polycarbonate providing a sharper sound profile and nylon offering a deeper sound profile. However, their shared nylon bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. Whether you prefer the crisper sound of the G Pro 3.0 White or the rounder sound of the Lime, both switches guarantee a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is clear that they both lean towards the lighter side. The G Pro 3.0 White has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Therefore, both switches have a similar bottom out force, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of how much force is needed to fully press the key. However, there is a slight difference in their actuation forces, with the Lime being slightly lighter at 35 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 White's 38 grams. This means that the Lime switch requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke, offering a slightly more sensitive typing experience. Ultimately, for those who prefer a lighter touch and find it more comfortable to type for extended periods, both switches would provide similar results, but the Outemu Lime would be the lighter option between the two.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The G Pro 3.0 White offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Lime switch has a shallower travel distance, which is preferred by gamers for its faster response times. If responsiveness is your priority, opting for the Lime switch would be the better choice. However, some users may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt. Therefore, if you prefer a more satisfying depth when pressing down on the keys, the G Pro 3.0 White switch would be the suitable option. Overall, both switches offer distinct travel distances, allowing users to choose according to their personal preference and typing or gaming style.
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 Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 White switch is described as clacky, neutral, and subdued. This means that when pressed, it produces a crisp, bright, and percussive sound, suitable for those who prefer a sharp auditory feedback. Additionally, it has a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. It also offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches, providing a dampened sound experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch is described as neutral and muted. It offers a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. It also produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch. This muted characteristic minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Overall, both switches provide options for those who prefer a more neutral sound profile, but the G Pro 3.0 White has a clacky option for those who desire a sharper sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch presents a variety of qualities. It is described as creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle. This means that it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to potential factory lubrication or specific materials. It has gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate, enhancing the typing experience. The light actuation force reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Its qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone, appealing to a wide range of typists. The Outemu Lime switch is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. It offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It requires little exertion from the fingers, reducing finger fatigue for extended use. It maintains a light typing feel, suitable for shared spaces, and has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer a comfortable and low-impact typing feel, with the G Pro 3.0 White having additional options for those who prefer a more creamy or silky sensation.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 White provides options for a clacky or more subdued sound, while the Lime offers a muted sound profile. In terms of feel, both switches offer a range of qualities such as being mild, feathery, and subtle. The G Pro 3.0 White presents additional options with its creamy and silky characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences and desired typing experience. However, it is important to note that other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches. Taking these factors into consideration will ensure that you achieve the desired typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are a delicate typist who values a light actuation force and a budget-friendly option, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be an excellent choice. With an actuation force of only 38g, these switches offer effortless and sensitive keystrokes. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, and the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile experience with feather-light typing and silent operation, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is the way to go. These switches are perfect for tactile fans who want a touch of tactility combined with a lightweight typing experience. The Lime switches are also silenced, making them ideal for shared spaces or when you prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Outemu Lime switches depends on your preferences and needs, whether you prioritize light linear switches or feather-light tactile switches.
Mentioned in this article
