Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer distinct typing experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is a tactile switch that provides a gentle bump without disrupting your typing flow, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° is a linear switch that prioritizes smoothness and silent typing, ideal for those who value a quiet typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown enhances your typing with its satisfying tactile sensation and medium-high pitch feedback, the Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, ensuring unparalleled smoothness and stability while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the polycarbonate plastic. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of these switches. While both switches boast similar qualities in their top housing material, the differences lie in their bottom housing.
The G Pro 3.0 Brown features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite having different top housings, both switches share the same quality in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing, impacting the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing in both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° leads to a balanced combination of sharp, clear sound and deeper, fuller tones during typing. While the top housing affects the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite some minor differences in design and aesthetics, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with a blend of crispness and depth in sound production.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Brown is heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight option. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Despite the difference in weight, both switches offer a smooth typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown catering to those who prefer a more substantial push feel, while the Zero Degree 0° is ideal for users seeking a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zero Degree 0° has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference may seem minor, but it can have an impact on the typing experience. The 4.0mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a more traditional feel, offering a deeper keypress, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.6mm travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° offers a shallower keypress, which can result in faster response times, making it ideal for gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown 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 Brown for $2.77.
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch offers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° linear switch is known for its silent typing capabilities, thanks to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure that absorbs sound and reduces noise. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is easy-to-press and provides a gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the mild and stepped characteristics of the G Pro Brown ensure a low-impact typing feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the feel of the Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not specified, but it is expected to offer a smooth and stable typing experience due to its design features.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a tactile typing experience with a medium-high pitch sound, while the Zero Degree 0° focuses on smoothness and noise reduction for silent typing. Depending on whether you prefer a tactile bump or a linear feel, both switches offer a high level of quality and performance that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should choose the G Pro 3.0 Brown if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a pleasant tactile sensation and medium actuation force. This switch offers a satisfying bump without being too overpowering, making it ideal for those who enjoy a subtle tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch that prioritizes smoothness and silence, the Zero Degree 0° would be the better choice. With its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, this switch delivers a quiet and cushioned typing experience. Consider your preferences for tactile feedback and actuation force when making your decision between these two switches.
Mentioned in this article
