Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Type A, both linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 White is known for its budget-friendly nature and delicate typing experience, offering a light actuation force of 38g for effortless and sensitive keystrokes. With a focus on bright RGB lighting and a satisfying auditory feedback, this switch is perfect for those who prefer a premium typing feel without a high price tag. On the other hand, the Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" offers a unique take on travel distances and factory lubing techniques, making it a great choice for those looking for a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound signature. 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
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Type A both feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softness and sound absorption capabilities. While the G Pro 3.0 White's top housing is made of polycarbonate, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Type A features a nylon top housing that contributes to a rounder and duller sound. This contrast in top housing materials results in a different auditory experience for users of each switch, with the G Pro 3.0 White offering a more clear and resonant sound compared to the Type A.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Type A share the use of nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality means that both switches will provide a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. The impact of the bottom housing material on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will be consistent across both models, highlighting the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience. While the top housing material may influence the sound when releasing a key, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a comparable typing experience between the G Pro 3.0 White and the Type A.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and overall typing experience of mechanical switches like the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Type A. The contrasting use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White and nylon in the top housing of the Type A results in different sound characteristics, with the former offering a sharper sound and the latter providing a deeper tone. However, the shared nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile, demonstrating the impact of housing materials on the tactile and auditory aspects of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Type A has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the G Pro 3.0 White is lighter overall, while the Type A is slightly heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 White or the Type A, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a consistent and equal travel distance, making them suitable choices for those who prioritize keypress consistency and 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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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 switch is known for its clacky and medium-high pitch sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that is satisfying to the ears. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch is characterized by a sound signature that leans towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum, offering a more subdued and mellow typing experience. Both switches fall under the neutral and subdued sound categories, making them suitable for various environments and personal preferences. Ultimately, your choice of board and keycaps will also play a significant role in the overall sound produced by these switches.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience with its light actuation force of 38g, allowing for effortless and comfortable keystrokes. Described as creamy and silky, this switch provides a smooth and buttery sensation, enhancing the overall typing feel and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the typing feel of the Gateron Type A switch remains unknown; however, based on its medium-weight classification, it may offer a more moderate typing experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 White switch.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Type A switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 White switch excels in providing a light and smooth typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Type A switch may cater to those seeking a deeper sound tone and potentially a more moderate typing feel. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will dictate which switch is the better choice for an individual user. However, given the similar attributes of both switches in terms of sound and feel, users can expect comparable typing experiences with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when selecting between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force. If you prefer a lighter touch and a more budget-friendly option, the G Pro 3.0 White with a bottom out force of 45 grams might be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly heavier actuation force and a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Type A with a bottom out force of 55 grams could be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by your typing style and the specific features that align with your preferences.
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