Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry MX Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their design and functionality. The G Pro 3.0 White, a linear switch from the Gateron's G Pro series, is tailored for delicate typists with its incredibly light actuation force of 38g. This switch offers an effortless and sensitive typing experience, along with a bright RGB lighting effect and satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is renowned for its rapid response and maximum speed, making it a favorite among gamers who value quick keystrokes for competitive gameplay. While the G Pro 3.0 White provides a premium typing feel at a budget-friendly price, the MX Speed Silver excels in rapid response and low spring resistance for instant triggering. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, one key difference lies in the construction of their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is well-suited for switches with RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver opts for a nylon top housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the G Pro 3.0 White and the MX Speed Silver utilize nylon for this component. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings offers a similar experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound experience. Despite the switches having different top housings, the nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the overall typing experience and sound profile.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Cherry MX Speed Silver feature different top housing materials, they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This results in a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel, as nylon's properties remain consistent between the switches. The top housing material may have a more pronounced impact on the sound when pressing and releasing a key, while the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel. Despite these differences, both switches offer a quality typing experience with unique sound profiles.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is 38 grams, while the actuation force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is 30 grams, making the MX Speed Silver the lighter option between the two. The bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 White is 45 grams, although the bottom out force of the MX Speed Silver is unknown. A lighter actuation force is generally preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it can reduce fatigue. However, some users prefer a heavier force for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so users can expect similar typing results despite the difference in actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches both offer different travel distances to cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 White has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer and more traditional compared to the MX Speed Silver's 3.4 mm travel distance. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may lean towards the MX Speed Silver with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the G Pro 3.0 White. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 White being slightly longer and the MX Speed Silver providing a shorter and quicker keypress. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable during use.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 switch is best described as having a clacky and neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a sharp, snappy sound that is crisp and bright when pressed, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound. This results in a deep, rich sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to the higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, the sound of both switches will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White is often described as creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle. This means that it offers a smooth, buttery typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. In comparison, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured feel, which indicates noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Overall, both switches offer different tactile experiences that cater to individual preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro White provides a clacky sound and a creamy, easy-to-press feel, the MX Speed Silver delivers a thocky sound and a textured feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their personal preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on the individual's typing style, preferences, and the overall typing experience they seek.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a delicate typist looking for a budget-friendly switch with an incredibly light actuation force and medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking maximum speed and rapid response with a linear action and low spring resistance, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is the way to go. Consider your typing style and preferences in terms of sound and feel when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, your choice between the G Pro 3.0 White and MX Speed Silver will depend on whether you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience or the fastest response time for your gaming needs.
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