Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry MX Brown. The G Pro 3.0 White, a linear switch, is perfect for delicate typists seeking effortless and sensitive keystrokes. With an actuation force of only 38g, this budget-friendly switch offers a satisfying auditory feedback with its medium-high pitch and allows for brighter RGB lighting with its frosted light diffuser. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown, a tactile switch, is best known for its subtlety. With a relatively light typing experience, gentle tactility, and subdued audio feedback, it provides a textured feel with low-pitched tones. Both switches have their unique qualities, catering to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 Cherry MX Brown differ in terms of their housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate top housing, while the MX Brown uses a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a clearer and more resonant sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Brown elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, both switches provide similar results in terms of their impact on the sound when a key is released.
In addition to the top housing, the G Pro 3.0 White and the MX Brown also have different materials for their bottom housings. The G Pro 3.0 White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the MX Brown also uses a nylon bottom housing. Both switches benefit from the deeper and fuller sound profile elicited by the softer nature of the nylon material. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The absorption of sound by nylon creates a dulled and rounded sound, enhancing the typing experience. Therefore, despite the difference in top housing materials, both switches provide similar results when it comes to the bottom housing's effect on the sound and feel of the switches.
While the G Pro 3.0 White and the MX Brown may differ in their top and bottom housing materials, they both offer unique qualities to enhance the typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the MX Brown creates a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches use a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound when typing. The materials used in the housing of these switches contribute to their overall sound profiles, ensuring that users can find the right switch to suit their preferences. Whether it's the clarity of polycarbonate or the absorptive nature of nylon, both switches deliver satisfying typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, while the MX Brown requires 45 grams for actuation. In terms of bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 White requires 45 grams, whereas the MX Brown needs 55 grams.
This means that the G Pro 3.0 White is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the MX Brown. This lighter feel can be beneficial for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. It allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, which is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the MX Brown offers a slightly heavier feel with both actuation and bottom out forces. This provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
If someone is looking for a similar experience in terms of force required, they would find the actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 White to be similar to the bottom out force of the MX Brown, as both are 45 grams. However, it's important to note that the overall resistance and tactile feedback of the switches may still differ, even if the forces are the same.
Ultimately, the decision between these switches would depend on personal preference. Those who enjoy a lighter and smoother typing experience may lean towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White, while individuals who prefer a slightly heavier and more tactile feel might opt for the Cherry MX Brown.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is the same at 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a similar distance of travel. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback at this distance, allowing for comfortable and responsive typing experiences. Whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch or the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, you can expect a consistent travel distance that ensures precision and accuracy in your keystrokes.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 is known for its clacky and neutral sound profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp and bright auditory feedback. However, the sound is not overly loud or distracting, making it suitable for both work and home environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown is described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound. It offers a deeper and richer sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This can provide a more immersive typing experience for those who prefer a deeper sound. However, it is important to note that the sound quality is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Cherry MX Brown offer different sound profiles, with the G Pro 3.0 White providing a clacky and neutral sound, while the MX Brown offers a bassy and low-pitched sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White is known for its creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and buttery feel, making typing effortless and comfortable. The light actuation force of only 38g reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It provides a low-impact typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown is not specifically described in terms of feel. However, it is important to note that MX Browns are generally known for their relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility. While the exact feel may vary depending on individual preferences, the MX Brown offers a subtle tactile feedback that provides a comfortable typing experience. Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White offers a range of subjective qualities that contribute to a smooth and low-impact typing feel, while the MX Brown provides a gentle tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Cherry MX Brown switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 White provides a clacky and neutral sound profile with a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Brown offers a bassy and low-pitched sound with a gentle tactile feedback. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, it is important to note that individual preferences and personal typing style play a significant role in determining the ideal switch. It is recommended to try out different switches and determine which one suits your typing needs the best.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a light actuation force and a budget-friendly option, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is a great choice. These switches are designed for delicate typists, offering an effortless and sensitive typing experience with a bottom out force of 45 grams. They provide a bright RGB lighting experience and a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. The G Pro 3.0 White is described as clacky, neutral, and subdued in terms of sound, offering crisp and percussive key press sounds without being overly loud. In terms of feel, they are described as creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle. These switches offer a smooth, low-impact, and comfortable typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
On the other hand, if you value subtlety and a slightly heavier typing experience, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is a good option. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches offer a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. MX Browns are characterized by their subtle and bassy sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. In terms of feel, they are described as textured, indicating a noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this texture, while others prefer a smoother typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a budget-friendly option, the G Pro 3.0 White is a great choice. However, if you value subtlety and a slightly heavier typing experience, the MX Brown is worth considering. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and preference for texture when making your decision.
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