Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Outemu Cold Plum, both linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 White is designed for delicate typists, offering a light actuation force of 38g for effortless keystrokes. With bright RGB lighting and a satisfying auditory feedback, this budget-friendly switch provides a premium typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum stands out with its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes due to its fully nylon construction. While the G Pro White is known for being easy-to-press and creamy, the Cold Plum offers a distinct and enjoyable typing 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
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-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 Outemu Cold Plum, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound vibrations, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches, as the bottom housing contributes significantly to the overall typing experience.
However, when looking at the top housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 White stands out with its polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic compared to nylon, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. This makes the G Pro 3.0 White a great option for those who prefer a sharper and higher-pitched sound when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum utilizes a nylon top housing, which helps in absorbing sound vibrations and creating a deeper sound profile. Users who enjoy a fuller sound experience may prefer the Cold Plum for its rounder and duller sound profile compared to the G Pro 3.0 White.
In summary, while both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Outemu Cold Plum share nylon as their bottom housing material, they differ in their top housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 White's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, catering to users who enjoy a rounder and duller sound when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the sound profile and feel that users prefer in their typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, we can see a significant difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 White is lighter, with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum is heavier, requiring an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which offers a more substantial and sturdy typing feel. The lighter actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 White makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier forces of the Cold Plum are preferred by users who enjoy a stronger push feel. Both switches provide unique typing experiences, catering to users with different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The G Pro 3.0 White provides a more traditional travel distance, offering a bit more depth compared to the Cold Plum. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may opt for the Cold Plum with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 White. Both switches offer unique benefits, with the G Pro 3.0 White catering to users who prefer a bit more travel distance, while the Cold Plum caters to those who prefer a shorter and more immediate keypress sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
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 Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is known for its clacky and medium-high pitch sound profile, which provides a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch's sound profile is not specified, but it is highlighted for delivering a unique thocky sound, which is distinct and enjoyable for typing enthusiasts. Both switches offer different sound experiences, with the G Pro 3.0 White providing a crisper and brighter sound, while the Cold Plum likely offers a deeper and more distinct sound.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is described as offering a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle typing experience. These qualities indicate a smooth, light, and gentle typing feel that minimizes finger fatigue and enhances the overall typing experience with a premium touch. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum switch's feel is not explicitly outlined, but based on its thocky sound profile and nylon construction, it likely provides a smooth and satisfying typing feel that complements its unique sound signature.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities to cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard users. While the G Pro 3.0 White emphasizes a clacky sound and a smooth, light typing feel, the Cold Plum switch focuses on a thocky sound profile, likely paired with a satisfying typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a premium typing experience, albeit with different characteristics. If you enjoy the qualities offered by the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, you may likely find similar results with the Outemu Cold Plum switch, ensuring a pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch or the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light actuation force and a clacky sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy actuation force and a thocky sound profile, the Cold Plum switch could be more to your liking. Whether you prioritize a creamy, easy-to-press, or feathery typing feel, both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision boils down to what feels best for you as you type away on your keyboard. Choose wisely based on your preferences and needs.
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