Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the SP-Star Duck. On one hand, the G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch known for its budget-friendly nature and delicate typing experience. With an actuation force of only 38g, this switch offers effortless and sensitive keystrokes, perfect for those who prefer easy-to-press keys. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, while the medium-high pitch provides satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience, ideal for those seeking a gentler tactility. The sound profile of the Duck switch is clean and crispy, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your keyboard setup.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the SP-Star Duck are quite similar. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches offer a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the G Pro 3.0 White features a nylon material, while the Duck utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. The relative softness of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing. This difference in bottom housings leads to variations in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, while the top housings of both switches provide similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, the variation in bottom housings creates differences in the sound and feel of the switches. The G Pro 3.0 White with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the Duck with its polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound profile. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the different bottom housings to achieve their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. Firstly, the G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Duck, which unfortunately does not provide information on its actuation force. This suggests that the G Pro switch may require less force to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the G Pro has a lighter force of 45 grams, while the Duck has a slightly heavier force of 58 grams, making it a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, for those who prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 White may be a suitable choice, while the Duck would be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, while the Duck provides a medium level of resistance for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch are both 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel, resulting in similar tactile feedback. Therefore, both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 sound profile of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch can be described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This gives a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Duck switch has a more neutral sound profile, producing a moderate sound when pressed. While the specific sound characteristics of the Duck switch are not mentioned, it can be inferred that it provides a clean and crispy sound profile. It is important to note that the sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a creamy and easy-to-press typing experience. The creamy feel indicates a smooth and buttery sensation while typing, similar to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Additionally, the easy-to-press feature highlights the light actuation force of the switch, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Duck switch, on the other hand, is described as mild and buttery. The mild typing experience suggests a gentle and approachable feel, suitable for most users. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Furthermore, the Duck switch may have a polished finish, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 White switch has a clacky sound with a medium-high pitch and provides a creamy, easy-to-press, and feathery typing feel. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a more neutral sound profile and a mild, buttery, and potentially polished feel. Despite the differences, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing sensation. Keep in mind that the sound and feel can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Therefore, it is recommended to consider these factors as well when making a decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when making a decision between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
If you are a delicate typist who prefers a light actuation force and effortless keystrokes, the G Pro 3.0 White would be a great choice for you. With its light 45-gram bottom out force, creamy and easy-to-press feel, and clacky or subdued sound options, this switch offers a premium typing experience without breaking the bank. Additionally, if you value brighter RGB lighting and medium-high pitch auditory feedback, the G Pro White's frosted light diffuser and satisfying sound profile would be appealing to you.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switch is perfect for you. With its medium 58-gram bottom out force, mild and buttery feel, and neutral sound profile, these switches provide a clean and crispy sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. The Duck switch offers a gentle tactility while typing, resulting in a comfortable and satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch comes down to your preferred actuation force, typing style, and sound preferences. Consider whether a light and creamy feel with varied sound options or a more gentle and buttery feel with a neutral sound profile aligns with your preferences and requirements. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and find the switch that best suits your needs.
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