Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry Nixie, both linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 White is ideal for those seeking a budget-friendly switch with a delicate typing experience, featuring a light actuation force of 38g for effortless keystrokes. It also boasts bright RGB lighting and a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is known for its substantial heft and textured typing feel, blending tradition with modern innovation. While the G Pro 3.0 White offers a light and sensitive typing experience, the Cherry Nixie provides a more tactile and substantial feel. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie comes with a nylon top housing, offering a deeper and more resonant sound profile because of its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While the G Pro 3.0 White's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Nixie's nylon top housing provides a more classic typing experience with a fuller sound.
Both the G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry Nixie utilize nylon for their bottom housings, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches equipped with nylon bottom housings. The differences in the bottom housings between the two switches may affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys, highlighting the unique qualities that each housing material brings to the overall typing experience.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Cherry Nixie offer contrasting housing materials that cater to different sound preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Nixie provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share the benefits of nylon bottom housings, which result in a softer and more absorbing sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound characteristics and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 White is lighter in both aspects. The G Pro 3.0 White has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Nixie has an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 White will require less force to trigger a keystroke and less force to press all the way down compared to the Nixie switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 White, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Nixie switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, their travel distances are exactly the same, which means that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness. Having a travel distance of 4mm, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience without significant differences in this particular characteristic. Whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White or the Cherry Nixie linear switch, you can be confident that the travel distance will be consistent and offer a similar 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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie 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 is described as having a more clacky and neutral sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that is suitable for various typing preferences. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, offering a deep and rich typing experience that resonates with keyboard enthusiasts who enjoy a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience based on individual preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch brings a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle typing experience to users. These qualities translate to a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance, making typing effortless and comfortable, especially during extended use. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its textured feel, which can provide a unique tactile feedback for those who prefer noticeable friction during key presses. Similar to sound, the feel of both switches caters to different preferences and typing styles, allowing users to choose based on their individual needs.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 White provides a clacky sound and a creamy typing feel, the Nixie delivers a thocky sound and a textured typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, allowing users to select the one that best suits their typing style and auditory preferences. Additionally, the choice of keycaps, keyboard construction, and personal preferences will also play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers looking to explore different mechanical keyboard options.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force and typing experience. If you are a delicate typist looking for a light and effortless keystroke with a moderate sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 White may be the ideal choice for you. It offers a creamy and easy-to-press typing experience with a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial heft and textured typing experience with a deep and rich sound, the Cherry Nixie might be more suitable for you. It offers a thocky feel with a low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are aiming for.
Mentioned in this article
