Bsun Cliff vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right one for your typing or gaming experience. The Bsun Cliff tactile switches are characterized by their medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making them an excellent choice for users who appreciate feedback with each keystroke. This tactile response can enhance typing accuracy and provide a satisfying experience for typists. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches, categorized as low-pitched and buttery, excel in delivering lightning-fast responsiveness with their shorter travel distance of just 3.4mm. This feature is particularly advantageous for gamers seeking a competitive edge, as it allows for a quick reaction time during gameplay. Additionally, the vibrant RGB lighting and frosted light diffuser add an aesthetic appeal to your setup. Both switches offer unique benefits—Cliff for its tactile feedback and satisfying sound, and G Pro 3.0 Silver for its speed and gaming performance. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Cliff and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches share noteworthy similarities in their top housing material, as both utilize polycarbonate. This choice results in a distinctive sound profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched tone that is both crisp and resonant. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate not only contributes to this sound quality but also enhances the visual aesthetic of the switches due to the material's translucency. This aspect is particularly advantageous for users who incorporate RGB lighting into their setups, as the transparent nature of the polycarbonate allows for better light diffusion, ultimately accentuating the switch's design while complementing the overall keyboard illumination.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Bsun Cliff and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches is made from nylon, which brings a different auditory experience to the typing feedback. Nylon's softer properties enable it to absorb sound more effectively than the stiffer polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This interaction means that when a user types on these switches, the bottom-out sound is noticeably rounder and more subdued compared to the higher frequencies produced by the top housing. This duality in sound profiles between the two materials enriches the user's experience, allowing for a nuanced balance of sound and feel when interacting with the keyboard.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing in both the Bsun Cliff and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver reflects a strategic design choice that leverages the strengths of each material. While the top housing is responsible for the crisp, resonant sounds produced when releasing a key, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a more robust sound when bottoming out. This division of sonic qualities means that despite some differences in their overall sound and feel, users can achieve a well-rounded typing experience with either switch, combining the benefits of a clear, bright release sound with a strong, muted bottom-out feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bsun Cliff switch features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which makes it the lighter option. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. While both switches are considered light, the Cliff's lower actuation force may benefit users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, with a heavier actuation and bottom out force, provides a more substantial feel, catering to those who enjoy a firmer push. Overall, if users favor a lighter touch for comfort during prolonged use, the Bsun Cliff is the way to go, but for those who desire a more tactile and resistant typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be more appealing.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Cliff switch offers a deeper feel when pressed down, which some users may prefer for a more substantial keypress experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers or those who favor quicker response times, enabling faster actuation. In summary, if you prioritize a more responsive feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the better choice, while the Bsun Cliff switch is suited for users who enjoy a greater depth in their keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver 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 Silver for $3.27.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch delivers a crisp sound signature that reflects its medium tactility, offering a clear and distinct auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is characterized by its bassy and low-pitched qualities, producing a deeper and richer sound profile. This switch creates a thocky sound, reminiscent of a satisfying thud when a key is pressed and released. While the Cliff switch may provide a clear pop on actuation, the G Pro 3.0 Silver’s auditory experience leans towards a more muted and robust sound, making them appealing in different contexts such as typing versus gaming.
In terms of feel, the Cliff’s tactile feedback can be described as providing a noticeable and engaging experience without being overly harsh. Its medium tactility allows typists to discern actuation points effectively while still offering a satisfying resistance. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch excels in smoothness, often referred to as buttery or creamy due to the seamless keystroke experience it provides. This fluidity gives the user a sensation of gliding across the keys, which can be especially pleasing during extended gaming sessions or typing tasks where comfort is key. While the tactile nature of the Cliff is distinctive, the G Pro 3.0 Silver prioritizes smooth execution over feedback.
Taken together, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Cliff provides crisp auditory cues and a tactile feedback that is ideal for users who enjoy a definitive typing sensation. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver excels in smoothness and a rich, bassy sound profile that are advantageous for gaming scenarios where rapid key presses are essential. Choosing between them largely depends on your preference—if you favor tactile sensations and a clearer sound, the Cliff would be suitable, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Silver caters to those who seek smooth operation and a deep auditory experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, consider your primary use case. If you appreciate tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience while producing a crisp sound signature, the Cliff switches are a great choice, especially for everyday typing and casual gaming. Their lighter actuation force of 45 grams provides a gentle tactile experience that feels pleasant but also allows for more energy-efficient typing sessions. Conversely, if your focus is strictly on gaming performance, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches will serve you better with their faster response time, shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, and smooth, buttery feel that allows for rapid key presses. These switches not only make your gaming sessions exhilarating with their low-pitched, thocky sound but also illuminate your setup with vibrant RGB lighting. Ultimately, align your choice with your priorities: whether you desire tactile feedback for typing or ultra-fast responsiveness for gaming will guide your switch selection effectively.
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