Huano Acacia vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Acacia and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow stand out as two compelling linear options, each catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Huano Acacia is renowned for its medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication, which ensures a smooth and satisfying typing experience with minimal stem wobble right out of the box. This makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a balance of comfort and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is celebrated for its budget-friendly excellence, offering a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel that appeals to those who enjoy a lively typing experience. While both switches deliver linear performance, the Huano Acacia leans towards a smooth and stable feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides an engaging auditory and tactile experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The Huano Acacia and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches share a commonality in their top housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate. This leads to a similar sound profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper audio experience. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a resonant quality that heightens the sound clarity when users type. Additionally, both switches feature translucent polycarbonate which is beneficial for RGB lighting effects, ensuring vibrant illumination that enhances the aesthetic appeal of any keyboard setup. This shared top housing material means that both switches will deliver a comparable auditory experience and visual aesthetic, particularly for those who appreciate the lit effects of customizable RGB lighting.
In contrast, the bottom housings of these switches present a significant divergence, with both switches utilizing nylon. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile upon key activation. The absorbing qualities of nylon result in a sound that is rounder and less sharp compared to the clarity provided by polycarbonate. Thus, while both switches exhibit similar characteristics in their upper construction that influence the sound upon key release, they create an auditory difference through their bottoms, where the nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a richer typing experience and a unique bottom-out sound.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the Huano Acacia and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow achieves a particular synergy in sound and feel that could appeal to different preferences. The stiffer polycarbonate contributes to a crisp auditory feedback, while the softer nylon enriches the depth of sound upon actuation. Users can expect a harmonious blend of sound profiles, bridging the gap between the clear, resonant sounds derived from the top housing and the mellow, absorbed characteristics from the bottom. Consequently, individuals seeking an all-around balanced typing experience can find satisfaction in either switch, as each brings together the merits of both materials to craft a satisfying and distinctive auditory sensation.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences in typing feel. The Acacia features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it suitable for users who favor a less strenuous typing experience that can accommodate long hours of use without fatigue. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, resulting in a heavier feel that may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke. Therefore, if you seek a lighter switch, the Huano Acacia is the better option, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a firmer resistance. These differences indicate that users will experience distinct typing sensations, with the Acacia providing a medium-light touch, and the G Pro 3.0 offering a medium-heavy response. Each switch thus caters to varying user preferences between a more effortless keystroke and a firmer push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, there is a clear difference, with the Acacia offering a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a traditional 4 mm travel distance. This distinction means that users of the Acacia may experience quicker key actuations, making it an appealing choice for gamers who favor faster response times. In contrast, those who opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow might enjoy a more substantial keypress, which can provide a more satisfying tactile experience for typing or gaming. Therefore, if you're looking for responsiveness, the Acacia is the better option, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow caters to those who prefer deeper keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
The Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39 per 10 switches.
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 Huano Acacia linear switch's profile is not specifically detailed, leaving an unknown aspect regarding its auditory characteristics. However, when compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, the latter is recognized for its high-pitched sound profile, offering a sharp and crisp auditory experience. Its resonant nature adds to the clean and immersive quality of the sound produced while typing, making it a delightful choice for those who prefer a less bass-heavy and more vibrant acoustic feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Acacia switch is distinguished by its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, delivering a satisfying typing experience that can be enjoyed right out of the box. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is characterized by its polished and creamy feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. The factory lubrication enhances the fluidity of key travel, allowing for a buttery sensation that feels effortless during use. Both switches cater to those who value a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, though the specific qualities offered by each may appeal to different preferences.
Overall, while the sound profile of the Huano Acacia remains unspecified, it has strengths in feel that stand alongside the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow's benefits. The Acacia's medium-light weight and minimal wobble yield an excellent typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a smooth, polished, and creamy feel. Although both switches promise satisfying performances tailored for different users, the ultimate choice will depend on individual auditory and tactile preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter keystroke with a softer bottom-out force of 55 grams, the Acacia is an excellent option, especially if you value a smooth and enjoyable typing experience right out of the box, enhanced by its generous factory lubrication. You’ll appreciate the minimal stem wobble and an overall polished feel, making it great for long typing sessions or enhanced productivity. On the other hand, if you desire a heavier feel and are looking for a switch that offers a more pronounced auditory experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow might be your go-to choice. With a bottom-out force of 67 grams, it provides a bouncy, creamier typing feel and a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile that some users find satisfying. Whether you’re gaming, typing, or just want a switch that stands out with its sharper acoustics, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has you covered. In summary, assess your priorities—whether it’s lighter actuation and smoothness or a heavier feel with auditory feedback—and select the switch that resonates most with your keyboard experience.
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