Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch, known for its incredibly light actuation force of 38g, making it perfect for delicate typists. This switch offers a satisfying auditory feedback with its medium-high pitch and allows for brighter RGB lighting with its frosted light diffuser. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch, offering a medium-high level of tactility through its long, two-staged spring. Typing on these switches provides deep, resonating thocks, creating a unique typing experience. Both switches have their own set of qualities that make them desirable, 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both feature polycarbonate top housing material, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will deliver similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics when it comes to the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, there is a difference. The G Pro 3.0 White utilizes nylon, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features polycarbonate. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, polycarbonate bottom housing in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile similar to its impact on the top housing. Therefore, there will be a noticeable difference in the sound when pressing down and letting go of keys between these two switches.
In summary, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring share polycarbonate top housing material, resulting in similar sound profiles and compatibility with RGB lighting. However, their bottom housing materials differ, with the G Pro 3.0 White utilizing nylon and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring incorporating polycarbonate. As a result, the switches will have distinct differences in the sound produced when pressing down and releasing keys due to the characteristics of their respective bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are significant differences to note. The G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams as compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's higher actuation force of 55 grams. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63 grams. These discrepancies indicate that the G Pro 3.0 White provides a smoother and lighter keystroke experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a more effortless typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a more substantial typing feel, preferred by individuals seeking a stronger push and a more tactile experience. It is essential to consider these values when choosing a switch, as they directly impact the typing or gaming experience and the level of effort required for each keystroke.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, whether you opt for the G Pro 3.0 White or the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance you feel when typing. Both switches offer a consistent travel distance, providing a satisfying tactile experience to users.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring have clacky characteristics, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, the G Pro 3.0 White is also described as having a medium-high pitch, providing a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is described as high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound. It's worth mentioning that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of the keyboard board and keycaps. So while the two switches have some similarities in sound, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a potentially more varied auditory experience with its medium-high pitch.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White is known for its creamy, easy-to-press, and feathery characteristics. These switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. They provide a silky sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is described as having sharp, accented, snappy, and bouncy characteristics. These switches offer high feedback intensity, a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, and a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. They provide a lively and responsive typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer distinct subjective qualities in both sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 White excels in providing a light and effortless typing experience with its creamy, easy-to-press, and feathery feel. It also offers a satisfying auditory feedback with its medium-high pitch sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring delivers a sharper and more tactile typing experience with its sharp, accented, snappy, and bouncy feel. It produces a high-pitched and crisp sound. While they may not be exactly the same, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a delicate typist who prefers a light and effortless typing experience, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its light actuation force of 45 grams and easy-to-press feel, you can expect a smooth and low-impact typing experience. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or work.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be the better option for you. With a bottom out force of 63 grams, these switches provide a more pronounced and distinct tactile bump, giving you a strong and crisp feedback intensity. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its snappy and bouncy feel, providing a lively typing experience. Moreover, the sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, giving it a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch will depend on your typing preferences. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing feel without compromising on a satisfying auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 White is the way to go. However, if you prefer a more tactile and pronounced typing experience with a sharp sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be the better fit for you.
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