Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock White Lotus are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and advantages. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch, designed for delicate typists who prefer a light actuation force. With an impressively low actuation force of only 38g, these switches provide effortless and sensitive keystrokes. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser enhances the RGB lighting, while the medium-high pitch delivers satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the White Lotus is a tactile switch, perfect for those who desire a subtle tactility without overwhelming sensations. The delicate tactility of these switches strikes the perfect balance, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions. Moreover, the removable light column allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, creating a captivating visual experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision about the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Durock White Lotus, one noticeable difference is in their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it perfect for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the White Lotus boasts a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, giving it a unique and premium feel. This material choice may contribute to a different sound and tactile experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 White.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the G Pro 3.0 White and the White Lotus utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White emphasizes that typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a duller and rounder sound due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound. The same description is provided for the White Lotus's nylon bottom housing, indicating that both switches offer similar sound characteristics in this aspect.
It's important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of a switch. Pressing down on the switch allows you to feel the characteristics of the bottom housing, as it significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound when you release a key is influenced more by the top housing. Therefore, while the G Pro 3.0 White and the White Lotus may have different top housings, their overall typing experience and resulting sound profiles may be more comparable due to the shared nylon bottom housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that there is a difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, while the White Lotus requires a slightly heavier force of 46 grams. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the G Pro 3.0 White has a bottom out force of 45 grams, whereas the White Lotus has a slightly higher bottom out force of 56 grams.
The G Pro 3.0 White can be considered a lighter switch overall, as both its actuation and bottom out forces are lower compared to the White Lotus. This lighter force may be preferred by individuals who value longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, as it reduces fatigue and strain on the fingers. On the other hand, the White Lotus offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-light forces, making it suitable for those who enjoy a stronger push feel while typing.
Although the forces differ between the two switches, it is important to note that both switches offer a comfortable typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 White provides a lighter touch, the White Lotus delivers a tactile feedback that enhances typing accuracy and satisfaction. Therefore, depending on personal preferences, individuals can choose one switch over the other to achieve similar results based on their desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, we find that both switches have a similar travel distance of 4 mm. Consequently, pressing down on either switch will provide a similar tactile experience as they both cover the same distance from top to bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the two switches, ensuring comparable results for users.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is best described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, providing a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch has a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, meaning they have a moderate actuation force requirement and are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. Overall, while they have different sound characteristics, they both provide pleasant and versatile sound profiles.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a creamy, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience. The switch feels smooth and buttery due to its lubricant or specific materials, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. It has a low actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions and providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Similarly, the Durock White Lotus switch provides an easy-to-press and mild typing experience. It also has a gentle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel without causing strain on your fingers. Both switches offer comfortable and approachable typing experiences, with the G Pro 3.0 White switch emphasizing smoothness and the White Lotus switch catering to a safe middle ground.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Durock White Lotus switches have distinct sound and feel characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 White switch produces a clacky sound and offers a creamy and feathery typing feel, while the White Lotus switch has a low-pitched sound and provides an easy-to-press and mild typing experience. However, both switches share some similarities in terms of sound and feel. They both have a neutral sound profile, suitable for various settings, and both offer an easy-to-press and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are a delicate typist looking for an incredibly light actuation force, effortless keystrokes, and a budget-friendly option, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is the way to go. This switch provides a satisfying auditory feedback with its medium-high pitch and allows for brighter RGB lighting with its frosted light diffuser. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile option that strikes the perfect balance between tactility and not overwhelming the user, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is the better choice. With its delicate tactility, removable light column, and captivating RGB lighting effects, this switch is ideal for work and extended typing sessions. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most purposes. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a linear switch with a creamy, easy-to-press, or feathery feel, or a tactile switch with an easy-to-press, mild, or subtle feel, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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