Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The G Pro 3.0 White is ideal for delicate typists looking for a budget-friendly option with a light actuation force of 38g, ensuring effortless keystrokes. With bright RGB lighting and a satisfying auditory feedback, this switch offers a premium typing experience without the high price tag. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown provides a tactile feedback that some users may prefer for a more pronounced 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
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Outemu Crystal Brown utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. While both switches share the same housing material for their top components, they may differ in terms of design aesthetics and branding.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 White and the Crystal Brown feature nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, highlighting the importance of the material used for this component. While the two switches may use the same nylon material for their bottom housing, subtle variances in design may impact the overall typing experience.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Outemu Crystal Brown may result in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches share similarities in utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the placement and design of these materials can affect the overall feel and sound of the switch. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help consumers make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident 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 Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 White requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Crystal Brown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 White would be the more suitable option. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Crystal Brown provides a slightly heavier push. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the G Pro 3.0 White being lighter overall, while the Crystal Brown falls into the medium-light category. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these switches, it is clear that both offer a similar typing experience in terms of how far the keys travel from top to bottom. This means that whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 White or the Crystal Brown, you can expect to get a consistent typing experience with a standard 4 mm travel distance. This similarity ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance when using either of these switches.
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 Crystal Brown 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 that provides a crisp and bright auditory feedback. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound profile is not available. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the G Pro 3.0 White leaning towards a sharper and snappier sound, while the Crystal Brown remains unknown in this aspect.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is praised for its light actuation force of only 38g, which allows for effortless and sensitive keystrokes. Described as creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle, the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a smooth and comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Information on the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's typing feel is not available. While the G Pro 3.0 White offers a range of qualities that cater to delicate typists, the Crystal Brown's feel remains a mystery.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch stands out for its budget-friendly pricing, light actuation force, and premium typing experience characterized by a clacky sound and a creamy, easy-to-press feel. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound profile and typing feel is not available, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison between the two switches. If the typist is looking for a switch with a light actuation force, a clacky sound, and a smooth typing feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be a suitable choice.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with 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 prefer a slightly higher actuation force with a tactile bump for more feedback while typing, the Crystal Brown switch could be more suited to your typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding which switch to go for.
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