Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry MX Orange can significantly influence your typing experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is designed specifically for those who prioritize sensitivity and light actuation, featuring a mere 38g force to register a keystroke, making it an excellent choice for delicate typists or gamers seeking quick responses. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting brilliance, combined with a medium-high pitch that delivers satisfying auditory feedback. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch, reintroduced with enhancements by Cherry's MX2A generation to meet modern demands, also focuses on a linear feel but is often praised for a more robust and reassuring keystroke experience without the loud click of tactile switches. Both switches cater to distinct typing preferences, offering unique benefits that may appeal to different users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry MX Orange, the distinctions between their top housings stand out significantly. The G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and transparency. This results in a sharper, more resonant sound profile that enhances the audible experience during typing. The polycarbonate allows for a clearer sound, particularly beneficial when integrated with RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange's top housing is made from nylon, a material revered for its durability but known to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer characteristics of nylon effectively absorb sound waves, resulting in a more subdued and rounded auditory experience. Thus, while the G Pro 3.0 aims for clarity and brightness, the MX Orange leans toward warmth and depth in sound.
Both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, which fundamentally influences the typing experience. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it helps create a fuller sound profile by absorbing sound, regardless of whether it is used in the G Pro 3.0 White or the MX Orange. This commonality means that the bottom-out feel and sound will resonate similarly across both switches. The shared attributes of nylon in the bottom housing foster a consistency in the tactile feedback and auditory experience when pressing the keys, creating a pronounced “thump” that enhances engagement during typing sessions. Therefore, while users may perceive variations in sound and feel due to the differences in the top housing, the bottom housing will unify the experience regarding depth and impact.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both switch designs results in distinct yet complementary auditory profiles. The G Pro 3.0 White’s polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and crisp sound upon release, enriching the experience in an RGB-lit environment. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Orange’s nylon top housing provides a softer, more muted response that appeals to those who prefer a rounded sound. Despite these differences, the common nylon bottom housing bridges the gap, ensuring that users will benefit from a cohesive feeling and sound when bottoming out. Thus, those who appreciate the enhanced sound of polycarbonate may still find joy in the MX Orange’s depth, as both switches offer robust auditory experiences shaped by their unique materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch to the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, there is a clear difference in actuation force. The G Pro 3.0 White features a light actuation force of 38 grams, making it very suitable for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel that some users may prefer for a firmer experience. Additionally, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 White is 45 grams, while the bottom out force for the MX Orange is unspecified, which means we cannot make a direct comparison in that regard. As such, the G Pro 3.0 White is the lighter option, while the Cherry MX Orange is heavier, catering to different user preferences when it comes to tactile feedback and typing comfort.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this regard. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel when pressing down on the keys, as both switches require the same amount of distance to be fully activated. Consequently, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 White or the MX Orange, you can anticipate similar results in terms of keypress depth and overall 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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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
**Sound:** The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch produces a sound profile characterized by a medium-high pitch, leading to satisfying auditory feedback during typing. It can be described as clacky, offering a sharp, crisp, and percussive sound with each keystroke, making it a great option for those who enjoy auditory cues while typing. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the Cherry MX Orange switch are unknown, leaving open the possibility of a different acoustic experience. The sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and even the typing environment, which adds a layer of variability.
**Feel:** The G Pro 3.0 White switch is designed for effortless typing, boasting a light actuation force of only 38g, which makes it extremely easy to press. Its feel is often described as creamy and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that minimizes resistance and fatigue during prolonged usage. With descriptors like feathery and easy-to-press, this switch design caters to users looking for a gentle typing experience. Unfortunately, the specific feel characteristics of the Cherry MX Orange switch are also unknown, which makes it difficult to directly compare tactile sensations. However, it’s possible that the MX Orange would offer a similar user-friendly experience, given its reputation.
**Conclusion:** Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch stands out with its light actuation force, satisfying auditory profile, and smooth typing experience, making it an excellent choice for novice and experienced typists alike seeking affordability without compromise. While some elements of the Cherry MX Orange switch remain unknown, the robust sound and feel qualities of the G Pro White suggest that it could provide a satisfying alternative for users leaning toward cost-effective options. If the MX Orange proves to share similar tactile and auditory characteristics, both switches would cater well to versatile typing needs, whether at home or in shared workspaces.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry MX Orange switches largely depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you value a light actuation force and seek a smooth, effortless typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 White is the switch for you. This makes it perfect for delicate typists or anyone who enjoys long periods of typing without finger fatigue. Furthermore, if you want a switch that enhances your RGB lighting with a frosted diffuser, the G Pro White delivers on that aspect too. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more traditional mechanical keyboard feel with a balanced auditory feedback and don't mind a medium-high pitch, the Cherry MX Orange would be your best choice. Although detailed descriptions of their sound and feel are less abundant for the MX Orange, its historical legacy underscores its reputation for providing a classic typing experience. Ultimately, assess your typing style, sound preferences, and the type of work or gaming you do to decide which switch aligns best with your needs.
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