Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Dareu Snow. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch known for its budget-friendly nature and light actuation force of 38g, perfect for delicate typists seeking effortless keystrokes. With a frosted light diffuser and medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback, this switch offers a premium typing experience at an affordable price. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a smooth linear switch with a deeper sound signature. While the G Pro 3.0 White is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Silky', the Snow switch is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles; 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-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 Dareu Snow, we see that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. The polycarbonate material used in the G Pro 3.0 White creates a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile, especially suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the POK material in the Snow's top housing offers a smooth and clacky feel, with exceptional durability and shock resistance. While both materials have their unique characteristics, they both contribute to enhancing the overall sound profile of the switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 White and the Dareu Snow feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for producing a deep and full sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The similarities in the bottom housing material of these switches highlight the importance of the material's impact on the bottom-out sound and overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Dareu Snow plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. While the polycarbonate top housing in the G Pro 3.0 White creates a crisp and resonant sound, the POK top housing in the Snow offers smoothness and durability. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deep and full sound profile. Despite the differences in material composition, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with both switches due to the unique qualities each housing material brings to the table.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it's clear that the G Pro 3.0 White is the lighter option. With an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, it provides a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow offers a heavier feel with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Snow switch due to its higher force requirements. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the G Pro 3.0 White would be the better choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Snow switch is shorter than the G Pro 3.0 White switch. The G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a more traditional travel distance of 4 mm, while the Snow switch provides a shallower 3.3 mm distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Snow switch, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the G Pro 3.0 White switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 switch offers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback described as clacky. This switch produces a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch is known for its thocky sound signature, creating a deep, rich, and satisfying tone when pressed. These switches offer a different auditory experience with the G Pro 3.0 White being more on the clacky side, while the Snow leans towards a thocky sound. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is designed to offer an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience. With a light actuation force of 38g, these switches require minimal force to activate, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. They provide a creamy and silky sensation, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively feedback sensation. This switch offers a different tactile experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 White, giving users a more elastic feel when typing.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Dareu Snow switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and premium typing feel. The G Pro 3.0 White excels in offering a light and easy-to-press typing experience with a clacky sound, while the Dareu Snow stands out with its bouncy feel and thocky sound. Choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that newcomers can find the right switch that suits their typing style and preference. Regardless of the choice made, users can expect a quality typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering which switch to choose between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a clacky sound profile with a creamy and easy-to-press feel, the G Pro 3.0 White switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force of 60 grams and a thocky sound profile with a bouncy feel, the Dareu Snow switch would be more suitable for you. Both switches offer unique features and benefits, so it's important to choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
Mentioned in this article
