Bsun Cliff vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that cater to different preferences are the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow. The Cliff tactile switches are celebrated for their medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making them a great choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback without overwhelming noise, perfect for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow exemplifies budget-friendly excellence among linear switches, offering a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel that appeals to gamers seeking rapid keystrokes and smooth operation. While the Cliff is ideal for users who appreciate the tactile bump that enhances typing accuracy, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow caters to those who favor a quieter, uninterrupted experience, making it suitable for both intensive gaming sessions and comfortable typing. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the Bsun Cliff switches and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches reveal striking similarities, particularly in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches benefit from the properties of polycarbonate, which contributes to their distinctive sound profiles. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more resonant auditory feedback when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances visual aesthetics, particularly when paired with RGB lighting, creating a visually immersive experience in both switches.
However, the bottom housing reveals a contrasting choice of materials. While both the Bsun Cliff and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilize nylon for their bottom housings, the effects of this material are vital for shaping the overall typing experience. Nylon, known for its softer composition, tends to absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic means that the sound produced when the key bottoms out is more subdued and rounded in both switches. Therefore, even though the top housings share the same polycarbonate characteristics, the different housing materials can lead to distinct auditory experiences when interacting with each switch.
In summary, the commonality in top housing materials makes for a consistent, bright sound when releasing the keys across both switch types, while the differing qualities of the nylon bottom housings contribute to distinct auditory profiles during key presses. The Bsun Cliff will produce slightly different sound dynamics when bottoming out compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow despite the parallel in nylon’s sound-absorbing properties. Ultimately, while users will experience certain similarities, particularly with the top housing sound resonance, the interaction of these materials will combine to create unique soundscapes for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cliff switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it well-suited for long typing sessions and gaming, as it requires less effort to press down. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback during use. Thus, users seeking a lighter switch for comfort would gravitate toward the Cliff, while those looking for a stronger push feel would find the G Pro 3.0 Yellow more satisfying. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these switches result in distinct typing experiences that cater to varying user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Cliff features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This 0.4 mm difference may seem minor, but it can impact the typing experience. Gamers or users seeking quicker response times might prefer the Bsun Cliff, as its shorter travel distance allows for more rapid keystrokes. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial keypress and a deeper feel might gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, which provides a more traditional typing experience. Thus, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference regarding tactile depth and responsiveness.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch offers a crisp sound signature that is both clear and distinct, creating an auditory feedback that many typists appreciate. This medium level of tactility is paired with a satisfying sound profile, making each keystroke feel rewarding. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switches produce a higher-pitched, clacky sound that is sharp and resonant. This sound profile provides a lively auditory experience that some users may find more stimulating, especially if they prefer the clarity of higher-frequency sounds. Both switches will certainly produce distinct auditory experiences, yet the Cliff's sound is more muted and controlled compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's bright and playful clackiness.
In terms of feel, the Cliff tactile switch earns a reputation for delivering a medium tactility that provides clear feedback during typing. This tactile response contributes to a typing experience that is engaging and can enhance accuracy, particularly for those who value the physical sensation of each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its polished and creamy feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The combination of low friction and buttery key travel creates a sensation that feels effortless, encouraging fast and fluid typing. While the Cliff engages typists with tactile feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow invites them to glide effortlessly across the keys.
In conclusion, the Bsun Cliff and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches offer distinctly different experiences, both in sound and feel. The Cliff provides a crisp auditory feedback with medium tactility that enhances typing accuracy, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Yellow boasts a high-pitched, clacky sound complemented by a polished, creamy feel that facilitates fluidity in typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two options will come down to personal preference, depending on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and controlled sound or smoothness and an enjoyable auditory experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch largely depends on your specific typing preferences and use cases. If you enjoy a light switch with a medium tactile bump that provides a crisp sound, the Cliff may be the better option for you. Its lower actuation force of 45 grams means less effort is required to register a keystroke, making it great for extended typing sessions and for users who favor a more responsive feel. On the other hand, if you're seeking a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the way to go. This switch excels in providing a smooth and polished typing experience, enhanced by its high-pitched and resonant sound profile. It’s particularly suited for gamers or those who enjoy a bouncy and creamy sensation while typing. In summary, choose the Cliff for lighter tactile feedback and a crisp sound, while opting for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for a smoother, more robust typing experience with a distinctive auditory profile. Ultimately, the right switch for you will hinge on whether you prefer tactility and ease of actuation or a smoother, heavier feel in your key presses.
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