Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Kailh Plum are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer different experiences for typists and gamers alike. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 White may be the perfect choice for you. With an actuation force of only 38g, these linear switches provide sensitive and effortless keystrokes. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, while the medium-high pitch delivers a satisfying auditory feedback to enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum stands out with its unique tactile feel. While it may feel quite hefty, it doesn't feature a significant tactile bump like many other tactile switches. This makes it a standout choice for those who prefer a neutral sound profile and a more subtle tactile experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Kailh Plum both feature polycarbonate top housings. This means that they will produce a similar sound profile, characterized by sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sounds. The use of polycarbonate in both switches also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetically pleasing element. It is worth noting that the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful when using RGB lighting. Therefore, if you value a clear and resonant sound profile and plan to use RGB lighting, both switches will provide similar results.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the G Pro 3.0 White and the Plum differ in material. The G Pro 3.0 White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Plum also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will elicit a similar deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nylon bottom housing.
When considering the impact on the overall typing experience, the bottom housing plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when you let go of a key. As both switches have a polycarbonate top housing, the difference in the bottom housing material will largely contribute to the overall typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 White's nylon bottom housing may provide a slightly duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out, whereas the Plum's nylon bottom housing will offer a similar effect. However, the exact feel and sound will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, their actuation forces and bottom out forces differ significantly. The G Pro 3.0 White has an actuation force of 38 grams, indicating a light touch is needed to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force for the Plum switch is not provided. However, the G Pro 3.0 White has a bottom out force of 45 grams, suggesting that a slightly heavier pressure is required to fully press the key down. On the other hand, the Plum switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy option.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience or need to type for extended periods, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White would be a suitable choice due to its lower actuation force and relatively lighter bottom out force. This switch is ideal for individuals who bring their keyboards to work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Kailh Plum tactile switch. With its heavier bottom out force, this switch provides a more pronounced tactile feedback and requires a firmer keystroke.
Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Kailh Plum tactile switch vary greatly, offering distinct options for different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 White has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Plum has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The G Pro 3.0 White falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance, offering a deeper feeling when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Plum switch provides a shallower travel distance, which is often preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Therefore, if responsiveness is a priority, opting for the shorter 3.6 mm Plum switch would be the way to go. However, for those who prefer a more substantial depth in their keystrokes, the G Pro 3.0 White with its 4.0 mm travel distance would be the better choice. Both options cater to different preferences, but ultimately, they offer similar results in terms of their effectiveness in facilitating typing or gaming experiences.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 is known for its clacky nature. This means that when you press the keys, you can expect a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as neutral, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White offers a creamy typing experience. This means that the switch feels smooth and buttery, providing a sensation of gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. It offers a silky typing feel with minimal resistance and effortless keystrokes. Additionally, it is described as easy-to-press, meaning it requires minimal force to activate, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The G Pro 3.0 White switch is also feathery, making it exceptionally light to press and comfortable for extended typing sessions. It offers a mild typing experience, standing in a safe middle-ground zone suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a mild typing experience as well. It provides a gentle typing feel, without any pronounced characteristics, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the Plum tactile switch can be described as stepped, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Kailh Plum switches offer different subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 White has a clacky sound profile and provides a creamy, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum switch has a neutral sound profile and offers a mild typing experience, with some users noting its stepped feel. Both switches provide a moderate actuation force requirement and can be suitable for various purposes. However, it's important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps when deciding which switch would be more suitable for individual use. Ultimately, it's recommended to try out both switches or get similar results based on the provided information.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a delicate typist looking for a budget-friendly option, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers an incredibly light actuation force of only 38g, providing effortless and sensitive keystrokes. The frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, and the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback. The sound profile of the G Pro 3.0 White can be described as clacky, neutral, or subdued, offering options to suit your preference. In terms of feel, this switch provides a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, or subtle typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness and reducing finger fatigue.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a unique tactile experience, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a good match. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it offers a medium-heavy actuation force. The Plum's sound profile is described as neutral, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. In terms of feel, it offers a mild typing experience and a stepped tactile feel, which provides a two-stage sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Kailh Plum tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter and more effortless typing experience with a variety of sound profiles and feel options, the G Pro 3.0 White would be a great fit. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a unique stepped tactile feel, the Kailh Plum switch would be a good choice. Consider your typing style, preference for sound and feel, and budget when making your decision.
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