Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches for enthusiasts seeking optimal typing experiences – the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Luciola. Let's start with the G Pro 3.0 White, a linear switch renowned for its budget-friendly nature. Designed with delicate typists in mind, these switches possess an extraordinarily light actuation force of only 38g, ensuring effortlessly smooth and sensitive keystrokes. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser encourages brighter RGB lighting, while the medium-high pitch provides satisfying auditory feedback. With the Gateron G Pro White switch, you can relish a premium typing feel without making a dent in your wallet. On the other hand, we have the Gateron Luciola – an attention-grabbing switch that truly shines in the dark. Boasting a medium heft, it delivers a smooth and bouncy typing feel that can only be likened to shaking a can of spray paint. Furthermore, the Luciola switch offers a unique sound profile that manages to be both snappy and clacky. With its marbly, buttery, and polished characteristics, it exemplifies a high-pitched typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Luciola differ in their housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White is especially beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the lighting effects. On the other hand, the Luciola utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile that is clacky yet not overly sharp. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, those seeking a sharper and crisper sound may prefer the G Pro 3.0 White, while those aiming for a clacky and slightly higher-pitched sound may lean towards the Luciola.
In terms of their bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 White features a nylon bottom housing, while the Luciola utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a result, using the G Pro 3.0 White with its nylon bottom housing would create a duller and rounder sound compared to the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing, which contributes to its clacky and higher-pitched sound. Therefore, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial sound may gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 White, while those looking for a thinner and higher-pitched sound may find the Luciola more to their liking.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Luciola create different sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 White's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and clearer sound, while its nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound. In contrast, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings contribute to a clacky and higher-pitched sound. However, if one desires a similar sound profile to the G Pro 3.0 White but prefers the clacky nature of the Luciola, they can opt for using both the Luciola's INK blend top and bottom housing materials. In this way, they can achieve a similar result while benefiting from the Luciola's unique sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, it becomes evident that there are notable differences between the two. The G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force, requiring only 38 grams to trigger a keystroke, whereas the Luciola necessitates 55 grams for the same action. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Luciola's 60 grams.
These variances highlight the weight considerations that individuals should take into account when choosing a switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 White would be a suitable option as it allows for comfortable and extended typing for longer periods of time. This is particularly beneficial for those who utilize their keyboard extensively in a work environment or engage in prolonged gaming sessions.
On the other hand, some individuals prefer a stronger push feel, which provides a more substantial typing experience. These users may find the Gateron Luciola linear switch more appealing due to its heavier actuation force and bottom out force. The additional resistance can create a satisfying tactile sensation and may be preferable for those seeking a more robust and tactile feedback during typing.
However, it is worth noting that if one desires similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, neither switch caters to that preference. Each switch offers its own unique combination of actuation and bottom out forces, making it essential for individuals to choose based on their personal typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch have different travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 White has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the more traditional and deeper travel distance. On the other hand, the Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is slightly shorter. Gamers, who often prioritize faster response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Luciola switch. This shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses and potentially improved gaming performance. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a more substantial key press and a sense of depth in their typing or gaming experience, the G Pro 3.0 White with its longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences 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 Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 White switch can be described as clacky, neutral, or subdued. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. However, the sound is not overly loud or aggressive, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switch is also clacky, but it has additional descriptors such as chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched. These switches have a unique acoustic signature, with a little squeak and a resonant, high-pitched sound. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, the Gateron Luciola switches would be a good choice.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, or subtle typing experience. These switches have a smooth and buttery feel, requiring minimal force to activate. They offer a low-impact typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Gateron Luciola switch, on the other hand, is described as snappy, buttery, and polished. These switches are super responsive and provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The polished finish and reduced friction ensure smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Gateron Luciola switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 White offers a clacky sound with options for a neutral or subdued sound profile. It provides a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, or subtle typing feel. On the other hand, the Luciola switch has a clacky sound with additional descriptors such as chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched. It offers a snappy, buttery, and polished typing feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and are suitable for different preferences. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can select the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a delicate typist who values effortless and sensitive keystrokes, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a light actuation force of only 45 grams, this switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, similar to gliding your fingers across the keys. The G Pro 3.0 White also has a neutral sound profile, providing a crisp and bright sound when pressed, without being too loud or subdued. Additionally, if you prefer a lighter typing feel and want a budget-friendly option with brighter RGB lighting, this switch is the way to go.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique and eye-catching switch, the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be a better fit. With its glow-in-the-dark feature, it adds a visually appealing element to your keyboard setup. The Luciola has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a smooth and bouncy typing feel. It offers various sound profiles, such as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched, which can add a distinct auditory experience to your typing sessions. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a polished finish and reduced friction, the Luciola is a great option.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Luciola linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, go for the G Pro 3.0 White. If you want a visually appealing and unique switch with various sound profiles, along with a smooth and bouncy typing feel, the Luciola is the way to go. Both switches offer their own advantages and can enhance your overall typing experience.
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