Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a heavier typing experience with a balanced medium-heavy feel, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial keypress. On the other hand, the White Lotus provides a light tactile response, perfect for extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. Both switches feature vibrant RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your keyboard setup. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black features a unique blend of materials that results in a thinner and higher-pitched sound profile. The pointed yet not overly sharp sound is often described as clacky, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE blend for its top housing, offering a premium and unique feel to the switches. This blend creates a different sound profile compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black, with a deeper and fuller sound that is characterized by its softness and ability to absorb more sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black uses POM housings that contribute to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The deeper and relatively muted sound profile creates a different typing experience compared to the White Lotus, which features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material. The nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics leads to a duller and rounder sound, providing a different feel and sound compared to the POM housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black.
Overall, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Durock White Lotus may have different housing materials, they both offer unique and satisfying qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a thinner and higher-pitched sound with its INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing, while the White Lotus offers a premium feel and deeper sound with its modified PC and UPE blend top housing and nylon bottom housing. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Durock White Lotus tactile switch with an actuation force of 46 grams, making the White Lotus the lighter option for those who prefer a lighter touch. In terms of bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black requires 70 grams of force while the White Lotus only needs 56 grams, again making the White Lotus the lighter option overall. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black for its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that you will get similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. This consistency in travel distance between the two switches allows for a smooth and predictable typing experience, regardless of which one you choose. Whether you prefer a linear switch like the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black or a tactile switch like the Durock White Lotus, you can expect the same level of key travel distance.
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 White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 known for its clacky and sharp sound profile, creating a crisp and bright auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone, providing a more bass-heavy and relaxed sound compared to higher-pitched switches. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black is described as creamy, silky, and subtle, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with gentle resistance. Conversely, the White Lotus is characterized as easy-to-press, mild, and subtle, providing a gentle typing experience with minimal force required for activation. Overall, while the G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offers a heavier feel and clacky sound, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch provides a lighter and more tactile typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Depending on personal preference, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring a satisfying keyboard experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing feel with a clacky and more substantial sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a lighter tactile feel with a low-pitched and more neutral sound profile, the White Lotus switches could be the perfect fit for your typing needs. Ultimately, your typing experience and personal preferences should guide your decision in selecting the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your overall typing enjoyment.
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