Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock Lupine are both linear switches that offer a unique typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavier actuation and bottom-out force, providing a more substantive typing feel for those who prefer a medium-heavy switch. Additionally, its medium-high pitch auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects make it an attractive option for users looking to customize their mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine features two-stage long springs that offer a consistent weight distribution while typing and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. Its classic clacky sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock Lupine, we can see that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their top and bottom housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, while its POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the Lupine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, along with a nylon bottom housing that elicits a fuller and rounder sound. Despite their differences, both switches offer a range of sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
One notable distinction between the two switches lies in the material used for their top housing. While the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing is known for its pointed and high-pitched sound, the Lupine's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it an ideal choice for those looking to customize their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black contributes to a unique deep and muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Lupine provides a fuller and more absorbent sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock Lupine ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound characteristics. While the G Pro 3.0 Black may appeal to those who prefer a mix of high-pitched and deep tones, the Lupine offers a sharper and fuller sound profile for a different typing experience. Both switches showcase the impact of housing materials on sound quality, with the top housing influencing the key release sound and the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound. Whether you prioritize clarity, resonance, or a mix of both, these switches provide a range of options to suit various typing styles and preferences.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Durock Lupine linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black also requires more force at 70 grams, while the Lupine needs 62 grams to bottom out. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, making it ideal for those who prefer heavier switches. On the other hand, the Lupine provides a slightly lighter typing experience, which may be preferred by users who like a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a different typing experience, so choosing between them depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a familiar feel for users. On the other hand, the Lupine's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times during intense gaming sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether one prefers the depth of a longer travel distance or the quickness of a shorter one. Both switches offer different experiences, so selecting the switch with the preferred travel distance will result in a more satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black 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 Black for $2.77.
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a more neutral sound with a moderate pitch that caters to a wide range of users. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, both switches can deliver satisfying sound feedback during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is praised for its creamy and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation with each key press. In contrast, the Durock Lupine switch offers a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and refined key travel. While both switches offer different tactile responses, users can expect a comfortable typing experience with either option.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch stands out for its heavier actuation and bottom-out force, coupled with a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing feel. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch features a two-stage long spring design for consistent weight distribution and a classic clacky sound profile with a mild and polished typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a satisfying experience for newcomers exploring mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Durock Lupine linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more gentle typing experience with a medium bottom-out force and a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine switch might be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, your choice between the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Lupine will depend on what typing experience you prefer and which characteristics align best with your preferences.
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