Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Each switch offers a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch, known for its budget-friendly nature, and delicate typists will appreciate its incredibly light actuation force of 38g. With a frosted light diffuser, this switch allows for brighter RGB lighting and offers a satisfying auditory feedback with its medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that boasts a medium level of tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, this switch provides an approachable tactility that many users find pleasing. It also features a deep and thocky sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision and choose the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
48g
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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound. Furthermore, both switches feature a translucent top housing, making them ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic appeal from these two switches when it comes to their top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 White differs from the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The G Pro 3.0 White incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which brings a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with its top housing material. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring will have a consistent sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound throughout the switch.
When pressing down on either switch, users can expect to feel the qualities of the bottom housing, as it has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the top housing will have a more noticeable influence on the sound when releasing a key, adding to the overall typing experience. Therefore, while the top housing brings similar qualities to both switches, the differences in their bottom housing materials will result in variations in the overall sound profile and typing feel.
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) Single Spring tactile switch, we can observe some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, which means that less pressure is required to register a keystroke on this switch. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams, offering a slightly more resistant push feel.
Considering the bottom out force, which measures the force required to fully depress a key, the G Pro 3.0 White again proves to be lighter with a bottom out force of 45 grams. This lighter bottom out force can provide a smoother typing experience, particularly beneficial for those who engage in prolonged typing activities or extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring showcases a slightly heavier bottom out force, measuring at 55 grams. This heavier force can give users a more substantial typing experience, offering a satisfying resistance as they press the keys.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch exhibits lighter actuation and bottom out forces, providing a lighter and smoother typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, resulting in a more substantial and resistant typing experience. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the G Pro 3.0 White, while those who prefer a more satisfying push feel might lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom. This distance is what you feel when you press down on a key. In the case of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when using either switch, you can expect a similar tactile experience with regards to the distance the switch travels. Both switches offer an equal travel distance, ensuring a consistent user experience regardless of which one is chosen.
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) Single 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) Single 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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is known for its medium-high pitch, providing a satisfying auditory feedback. It can be described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which adds to the overall typing experience. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 White is creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. The light actuation force of only 38g makes it easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate. This enhances the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 White switch provides a bright and percussive sound and a silky sensation while typing.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile. However, specific information about the sound profile is not provided. In terms of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively feel, offering rebound when pressed. While the specific qualities of the sound and feel are not fully described, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is recommended for those looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer different subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 White switch provides a clacky sound profile, a creamy and easy-to-press feel, and a medium-high pitch auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile which is not fully described and a bouncy feel. While the specific sound and feel qualities of the Aflion switch are unknown, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a premium typing feel at a budget-friendly price. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can deliver satisfying results for different typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a budget-friendly and light switch with effortless keystrokes, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a creamy, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The G Pro 3.0 White also features a clacky sound profile, adding a crisp and bright auditory feedback to your typing. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your keyboard.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch with medium tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is highly recommended. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, it offers a lower actuation and bottom-out force, providing a very approachable tactility. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch also features a deep and thocky sound profile, adding a satisfying auditory feedback to your typing. Additionally, the bouncy feel of these switches gives you a lively and elastic feedback sensation, providing a unique typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch depends on your preferences and priorities. Consider factors such as budget, typing style, desired level of tactility, and sound profile when making your decision. By understanding the characteristics and qualities of each switch, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your typing needs. Whether you prioritize a light and effortless linear switch or a medium-tactile switch with a thocky sound profile, both switches offer unique benefits that can enhance your typing experience.
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