Bsun Pine vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the BSUN Pine tactile switch to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, it's important to consider the unique features and characteristics of each. The Pine switch is renowned for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a budget-friendly option with a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel. While the Pine switch is accented and invigorating, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is polished and resonant. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that may appeal to different preferences, making them suitable for different typing styles and preferences. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. This similarity means that users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetics when using either of these switches.
However, when looking at the bottom housing material of the two switches, we see a difference in choice. The Pine uses nylon for its bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, indicating that the two switches will likely have similar sound characteristics when it comes to typing experience and sound profile.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience is noteworthy. While the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. As both switches incorporate polycarbonate in their top housing, users can expect a similar crisp and resonant sound when key releases. The differences lie in the bottom housing materials, with the Pine offering a deeper sound profile due to nylon's absorption properties, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a slightly different typing experience with the same housing material for both top and bottom.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, we find that the Pine has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Pine requires 65 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow needs 67 grams, making them fairly similar in that aspect. In terms of weight considerations, the Pine may be more suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow could be preferred by individuals who like a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-heavy feel and would provide similar results in terms of force requirements for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine switch falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing or gaming experience. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, so it's important to consider how the travel distance will affect your typing or gaming performance.
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 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.
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 tactile switch offers a sharp and distinct typing experience with a quick bottom-out, which results in a sound profile that is likely to be crisp and pronounced. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is known for producing a higher-pitched clacky sound that provides a lively auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Pine switch leaning towards a more direct and no-nonsense feedback while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch offers a bouncier and more resonant sound.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is characterized by its sharp tactile bump and fast action, providing invigorating and sharp feedback with each keypress. This switch offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, resulting in a snappy and reactive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The creamy feel of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch allows for effortless keystrokes and a silky sensation while typing.
In conclusion, while the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offer different sound profiles and typing experiences, both switches cater to specific preferences and typing styles. The Pine switch excels in providing a sharp and direct tactile feedback with a fast bottom-out, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch offers a budget-friendly option with a bouncy and resonant sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can achieve similar results with either switch by considering factors such as keycaps, keyboard build, and personal typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Pine tactile switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences. If you are someone who values a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out with clear-cut feedback, then the Pine switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a budget-friendly option with a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a smooth and refined typing experience, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch might be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you are looking for before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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