Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring stand out as noteworthy options with distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Black is a linear switch that offers a hefty typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch known for its medium-high tactility and distinctive two-staged spring design, resulting in deep and resonating thocks while typing. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a balanced, medium-heavy feel and enhanced RGB lighting effects, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a tactile typing experience with pronounced tactility. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is evident that both switches use different materials for their top housing. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its thinner and higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a unique sound experience, the INK blend top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black is said to provide a clacky sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a more resonant sound due to its stiffness.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials of these switches, the G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a POM bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which, similar to its top housing, offers a sharper and clearer sound profile. The use of different materials for the bottom housing allows each switch to have its own unique sound characteristics. While the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a deeper sound, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring complements the sharper tone created by its top housing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. The differences between the INK blend and polycarbonate materials in the top housing of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring highlight the varying sound experiences each switch offers. Additionally, the utilization of different materials for the bottom housing further adds to the distinct characteristics of each switch. Whether it is the clacky sound of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the sharper tone of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, these switches showcase how housing materials can influence the overall sound profile and tactile experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch are both within the medium range. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, which has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier forces, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a slightly lighter touch. Both switches offer a good balance between lightness and heaviness, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming. Ultimately, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of the two switches, they provide a similar typing experience as they both have the same distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Despite their differences in operation and feel, the travel distance remains consistent, ensuring that users get a similar result in terms of keypress feedback and overall typing 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 Black linear switch is described as having a clacky and slightly subdued sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy typing experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is also classified as clacky but with a high-pitched tone, delivering a sharp and crisp sound with a more pronounced tactility. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, allowing users to customize their typing experience based on their sound preferences.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is revered for its creamy and silky texture, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a balanced medium-heavy feel. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is known for its sharp and accented tactility, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with a responsive and lively feel. Both switches cater to different typing preferences, allowing users to choose between a more subtle and smooth typing experience or a more pronounced tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky and subdued sound with a creamy and silky feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a sharp and accented tactility. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether the user values a smoother typing experience or a more tactile feedback. However, both switches guarantee a premium typing experience that is sure to enhance any mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force, along with a clacky and subdued sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-high level of tactility with deep thocks, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch could be more suited to your preferences. Each switch offers its own unique typing experience, so it's important to consider factors such as actuation force, sound, and feel when making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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