Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The G Pro 3.0 White, a linear switch, is ideal for those who prefer a light and effortless typing experience. With an actuation force of only 38g, it offers delicate typists the opportunity for sensitive keystrokes. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor, a tactile switch, offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to typing. Its pronounced tactility provides satisfying feedback without being overly tactile, striking the perfect balance. Both switches have their unique qualities and applications, 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
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal. Therefore, in terms of sound and visual experience, both switches offer similar results due to their identical polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the G Pro 3.0 White utilizes a nylon construction, while the Viola Tricolor also incorporates nylon. The nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 White creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing offers the same benefits, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile.
When comparing the top and bottom housings, it is important to note that the qualities these materials bring to the switches are split between the top and bottom. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switches, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in both switches influences the overall sound experience, but the G Pro 3.0 White's nylon bottom housing may provide a slightly different typing feel compared to the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, some key differences are evident. The G Pro 3.0 White has a relatively light actuation force of 38 grams, meaning it requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor's actuation force is unknown, but it is considered a medium-heavy switch. This suggests that it may require a slightly stronger push to activate.
Moving on to the bottom out force, which measures the force required to fully depress the keys, the G Pro 3.0 White has a weight of 45 grams. This is also relatively light, providing a comfortable typing experience without excessive strain. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. This suggests that it may offer a more substantial and tactile typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel.
When considering the weight aspect, the G Pro 3.0 White can be seen as the lighter option, making it suitable for long typing sessions at work or extended gaming sessions. Its light actuation and bottom out forces provide a smooth and comfortable typing experience. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor is the heavier option. Although the actuation force is unknown, its medium-heavy bottom out force suggests that it may be favored by those looking for a more substantial typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Haimu Viola Tricolor have different actuation and bottom out forces, both switches offer unique benefits. The G Pro 3.0 White provides a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended use, while the Viola Tricolor offers a slightly heavier and more tactile feel, appealing to those seeking a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have different travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 White has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the 4.0 mm of the G Pro 3.0 White is closer to the standard, while the 3.8 mm of the Viola Tricolor is slightly shorter. Gamers who prioritize faster response times often prefer shorter travel distances, making the Viola Tricolor the preferable option. However, those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keypress may find the 4.0 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 White more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences and typing/gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 White for $3.27.
The Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 White switch provides a clacky and neutral sound profile. This switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, offering crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch has a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. It offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches provide distinct sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience. However, the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound produced, so it's important to consider these factors as well.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle typing experience. These switches provide a smooth and buttery feel, requiring minimal force to activate. They offer a low-impact and responsive typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch provides an accented and invigorating tactile feel. It offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. These switches provide a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preferences.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch excels in providing a budget-friendly option with its light actuation force and medium-high pitch sound. It offers a premium typing feel without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch strikes a perfect balance between tactility and sound, offering a satisfying feedback without overwhelming the user. Both switches have their own unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for different individuals. If you are looking for a similar sound or feel, you can consider the characteristics mentioned above to make an informed choice. Ultimately, the decision should be based on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a delicate typist looking for a budget-friendly switch with a light actuation force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. This switch offers an effortless and sensitive typing experience with its low bottom out force of 45 grams. Additionally, it provides a clacky and creamy typing feel, characterized by sharp and snappy sound profiles and a smooth and buttery sensation. The G Pro 3.0 White switch allows for brighter RGB lighting with its frosted light diffuser, adding an aesthetic touch to your keyboard.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium to heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams and are looking for a tactile typing experience, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is the way to go. This switch strikes a perfect balance between tactility and being overly tactile, offering a satisfying feedback without overwhelming the user. The Viola Tricolor switch produces a thuddy and punchy sound, adding character to your typing experience. It provides an invigorating and accented feel, creating an immersive and reactive typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch comes down to your personal typing preferences. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience with a clacky and creamy feel, the G Pro 3.0 White switch is the better option. However, if you prefer a medium to heavy tactile switch with a thuddy and punchy sound, the Viola Tricolor switch would be the more suitable choice for you. Consider your typing style and preferences when making your decision, as both switches offer their own unique benefits and characteristics.
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