Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two notable mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock T1, these switches offer distinct typing experiences to cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, stands out as an affordable option from Gateron's renowned G Pro line-up. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making it ideal for those seeking a smooth typing experience. Furthermore, its frosted light diffuser enables vibrant RGB lighting effects, complemented by a satisfying medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the Durock T1, a tactile switch, offers exceptional comfort while typing. Its medium bump provides a tactile feedback, reminiscent of raindrops falling on a window, creating a pleasant typing sensation. Both switches have their unique qualities; however, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Durock T1 both feature polycarbonate top housings. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it particularly useful for switches that have RGB lighting, allowing the light to shine through and create vibrant visual effects. While both switches provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic appeal, it is worth noting that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red may have a more pronounced sound upon key release due to the impact of the polycarbonate top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the T1 utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will deliver a satisfying and immersive typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing enhancing the overall sound quality.
When considering the impact of the different housing materials, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on either the G Pro 3.0 Red or the T1, the bottom housing's characteristics will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the sound experienced when releasing a key will be more influenced by the top housing material. Therefore, while both switches offer similar sound and feel capabilities, the specific nuances of the bottom-out and key release sounds may vary slightly.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a gentle touch. Additionally, it has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it requires a slightly firmer press to fully depress the key. On the other hand, the T1 tactile switch provides a contrasting experience. The actuation force for the T1 is unavailable, but its bottom out force is notably heavier at 67 grams, giving it a more substantial typing experience. This makes it a suitable choice for those who prefer a stronger push feel and enjoy a more substantial typing experience. If one desires a lighter switch, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be the better option, while those seeking a heavier switch may find the T1 more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance that the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a similar tactile experience when typing, providing a satisfying level of feedback and responsiveness. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, these switches offer identical results, allowing users to enjoy a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 Red linear switch is considered neutral, with a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory experience. It strikes a balance between being responsive and easy to use, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as low-pitched, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It also falls into the category of a neutral switch, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. The switch is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery sensation while typing. It is also considered mild, offering a gentle typing experience without any extreme characteristics. The switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Finally, it is characterized as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished. It has a stepped feel, providing two stages of tactile feedback. This means that users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke. The switch is also accented, meaning it offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Similar to the G Pro 3.0 Red, the T1 switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a neutral sound profile with a medium-high pitch, while the T1 has a low-pitched and mellow tone. The G Pro 3.0 Red provides a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience, while the T1 offers a stepped, accented, and polished feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the user's personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, it is light and easy to actuate. The frosted light diffuser allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, and the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work. It offers a neutral sound profile and a creamy, polished feel, making each keystroke feel silky smooth. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window, the Durock T1 switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it provides a medium-heavy actuation force. The T1 switch has a low-pitched, neutral sound profile and a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the T1 switch offers a stepped and accented tactile experience, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Overall, both switches have their own unique characteristics, so it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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