Bsun Pine vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Pine and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red offer distinct advantages for different preferences. On one hand, the Bsun Pine switch is a tactile option that boasts a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy an invigorating and snappy typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch designed for smooth typing, featuring a medium-light actuation force for a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, the G Pro Red offers bright RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience. Ultimately, choosing between the Pine and the G Pro Red will depend on individual preferences and typing style. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. This means that both switches will have a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Bsun Pine features a nylon bottom housing, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red also has a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to their nylon bottom housings.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Bsun Pine and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red lie in the bottom housings. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharper sound profile, the Bsun Pine's nylon bottom housing will create a slightly different typing experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's nylon bottom housing. The bottom housing material will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, we see that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Pine has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's 50 grams, making the Pine switch the heavier option. This means that typing on the Pine switch will require a bit more force to fully press down compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be the better choice, as it allows for smoother and faster keystrokes. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing feel, the Pine switch would be the ideal option. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Pine tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a longer travel distance compared to the Bsun Pine. The G Pro 3.0 Red's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper key press experience, while the Bsun Pine's 3.4mm travel distance is shallower, preferred by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for either a shorter, more responsive key press or a longer, more substantial feeling key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Red for $2.77.
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 Bsun Pine switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory experience, especially when combined with RGB lighting effects. Depending on your setup and personal preferences, both switches can offer pleasant sound characteristics that enhance your typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Pine switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile experience with a distinct tactile bump, creating a snappy and responsive typing sensation. This level of tactility can be immersive for users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a creamy and polished feel, with smooth and buttery key presses that glide effortlessly. These switches provide a gentler typing experience that may appeal to those looking for a more subtle tactile feedback. Depending on your preference for tactility, both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing sensations.
In conclusion, the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch provide distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch offers sharp tactility and a neutral sound profile, catering to users who prefer a direct and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch delivers a smooth and creamy typing feel with a medium-high pitch sound, ideal for those looking for a more subtle yet satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for tactility, sound, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Pine tactile switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, then the BSUN Pine switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a smooth typing experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch might be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics and advantages, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you is the one that enhances your typing experience and aligns with your preferences.
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