Bsun Pine vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your preferences, the BSUN Pine and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown both offer unique features worth considering. The BSUN Pine stands out with its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility that appeals to those who enjoy a pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a more subtle tactile sensation, designed to enhance your typing flow without overpowering it. With a focus on budget-friendliness and quality, these switches also come with additional features such as a frosted light diffuser for brighter RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown both feature polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, both switches offer similar results with their polycarbonate top housing.
However, where they differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The Pine's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's nylon bottom housing offers the same qualities, providing a more muted and rounded sound when typing on the switch. Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both switches strive to offer a comfortable typing experience with their unique sound profiles.
Overall, the top and bottom housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown work together to create a well-rounded typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when letting go of a key. Despite the differences in their housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and efficient typing experience for users looking for a distinctive sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Pine has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the G Pro's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Pine is heavier at 65 grams compared to the G Pro's 63 grams. The Pine offers a medium-heavy typing experience, while the G Pro provides a medium feel. Despite the differences in force, both switches offer a similar level of performance and feedback, making them suitable for different preferences. Weight is a crucial factor to consider as it affects typing comfort and durability. Lighter switches like the Pine are ideal for extended typing sessions, while heavier switches like the G Pro offer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two hinges on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a longer travel distance compared to the Pine. The difference of 0.6 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Pine may provide a quicker response time, which is favored by gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Brown may offer a more substantial and satisfying keypress for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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.
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 BSUN Pine switches are known for their yet to be described characteristics. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches offer a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the BSUN Pine switches, they are described as having an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback. This means that they provide a prominent amount of tactility with a strong and crisp tactile bump, creating an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches are characterized as easy-to-press, mild, and stepped. These switches offer gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate, providing a low-impact typing feel that is approachable to most users.
Overall, the BSUN Pine switches offer a sharp and snappy tactile feedback with a distinct and quick bottom-out, perfect for those who prefer direct tactility. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches provide a more gentle and easy-to-press typing experience, ideal for those looking for a subtle tactile sensation. Depending on your preference for typing feel and sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, your choice between the BSUN Pine and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches will depend on whether you prioritize a sharper, more accentuated tactile feel or a gentler, more approachable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a sharp and invigorating typing experience with a distinct tactile bump and quick bottom-out, the Pine switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile sensation with easy-to-press and mild characteristics that won't overpower your typing flow, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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