Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Lunar Probe both offer unique features to consider. The G Pro 3.0 White is ideal for delicate typists looking for a budget-friendly option with a light actuation force of 38g, making keystrokes effortless and sensitive. With a frosted light diffuser for brighter RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback, the G Pro White provides a premium typing experience without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe stands out for its dual rail mechanism that ensures stability and consistency in keypresses, along with a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation and subtle sound signature. Each switch has its own characteristics and advantages, catering to different preferences and 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Lunar Probe feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and acoustic properties, both switches benefit from the polycarbonate top housing, providing a consistent sound experience for users.
On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White and the Lunar Probe differ in their bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Lunar Probe also features a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience with a focus on creating a more robust and muffled sound when bottoming out the keys.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Lunar Probe differ in their bottom housing, both switches offer a quality typing experience with a focus on sound profile and tactility. Whether it's the polycarbonate top housing for a crisper sound or the nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound, users can expect a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with either switch. In terms of construction and material choices, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences while maintaining a high standard of quality.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 White is lighter at 45 grams, while the Lunar Probe has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the G Pro 3.0 White requires a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Lunar Probe offers a bit more resistance, giving a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional length. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Gamers might prefer the Lunar Probe for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. However, for those who enjoy a deeper key press, the G Pro 3.0 White might be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time, but both options offer a satisfactory typing experience.
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 Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 offers a clacky experience with a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, information about the sound of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is not provided. If one enjoys a switch with a distinct sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 White could be the preferred choice for a satisfying auditory feedback.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch provides a creamy, easy-to-press sensation that offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal force required for activation. Additionally, it has a feathery and silky feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the contrary, details about the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe switch are not disclosed. Given the characteristics mentioned for the G Pro 3.0 White, those looking for a light and smooth typing experience may find it appealing.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch stands out for its light actuation force, clacky sound, and creamy, easy-to-press feel that cater to delicate typists seeking a premium typing experience. Meanwhile, information about the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is limited, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, if the Lunar Probe switch offers similar characteristics to the G Pro 3.0 White, users can expect to experience a smooth and stable typing sensation with consistent keypresses. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches, consider the key factors that matter to you. If you are looking for a budget-friendly switch with a light actuation force of 38g, a bright RGB lighting effect, and a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 White is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a stable and consistent keypress experience, incredibly smooth linear sensation, and a subtle sound signature, then the Lunar Probe switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice should be based on personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel to ensure a satisfying keyboard experience.
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