Gateron CM vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting the Gateron CM and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both have their own unique qualities that make them an appealing choice for different users.
The CM switches are known for their departure from convention with their full nylon housing, which not only adds to their durability but also contributes to a richer and deeper sound signature. These switches are also impeccably factory lubed, ensuring a smooth typing experience that feels effortless. With their lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switches offer a bouncy typing experience that adds to the overall satisfaction of using these switches. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', the CM switches provide a versatile typing experience that caters to different preferences.
On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches stand out for their budget-friendly excellence without compromising on performance. These switches offer a higher pitched clacky sound profile when typing, which can be pleasing to some users. Additionally, they provide a fairly bouncy typing feel, adding a touch of liveliness to each keystroke. Categorized as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant', the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches offer a unique combination of characteristics that make them suitable for those seeking an affordable yet enjoyable typing experience.
However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow differ in their composition, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The CM's nylon top housing, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, giving it a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing, being a stiffer plastic, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Aesthetically, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's clear polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts. Despite their differences, both materials serve as classic switch housing options.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the CM and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow are made of nylon, which elicits the same deeper and fuller sound profile as the nylon top housing. As nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, the bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when these switches are pressed. The use of nylon for the bottom housing, a common choice in switch manufacturing, ensures consistency in the sound produced.
While the top and bottom housings of a switch may vary in material, each housing plays a role in the overall sound profile. The bottom housing, typically made of nylon in both the CM and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of material for the top housing is crucial, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound profile in the CM, and polycarbonate providing a crisper and higher-pitched sound profile in the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. Regardless of these differences, both switches offer reliable and classic housing materials that cater to various preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gateron CM has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the CM. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gateron CM has a lower force of 63.5 grams, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This indicates that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a slightly stronger push feel when fully pressing down on the keys compared to the CM.
Considering weight is essential as it impacts the typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be a suitable choice due to its lighter actuation force, allowing for extended typing sessions without much strain. This lighter weight can also be beneficial for individuals who use their keyboard extensively for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Gateron CM with its higher actuation force. The CM switch provides a slightly more resistant push, giving a tactile feedback that some users find satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired level of force required for typing. Both switches, despite their differences in force, would offer similar results through their similar mechanical properties.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, it is evident that they have different distances. The CM has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The CM's travel distance is more shallow, providing a quicker response time that is favored by gamers. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a deeper and more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a greater sense of depth when pressing down on a key. Both options have their advantages, with the shorter travel distance of the CM allowing for faster response times and the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow providing a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the individual's preference for responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 Gateron CM linear switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, with a low-pitched tone. This switch provides a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch produces a higher-pitched and resonant sound. It offers a sharp and crisp sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience. The sound profile is clean and sharp. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, if you prefer a lower, bass-heavy sound, the CM switch is a better option, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch share similar descriptors. They are both described as polished and creamy switches, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This is due to the materials used and/or factory lubing, which reduces friction and promotes smooth key travel. Typing on these switches provides a buttery and frictionless sensation, allowing for a seamless and effortless typing experience. It's like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. Therefore, in terms of feel, both switches will provide a similar experience of smoothness and fluidity.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offer different sound profiles, with the CM switch providing a bassier and thockier sound while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch produces a higher-pitched and resonant sound. Both switches, however, share similar qualities in terms of feel, offering a polished and creamy typing experience characterized by reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on your personal preference for sound, with the CM switch providing a deeper, bass-heavy sound and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch offering a sharper and crisper sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a richer, deeper sound signature, the Gateron CM linear switch is an excellent choice. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, typing on the CM switches will feel like gliding gracefully with each keystroke. The CMs also offer a bouncy typing experience thanks to their lengthened, dual-staged spring. Moreover, if you prefer a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile during key presses, the CM switches would be the perfect fit for you.
On the other hand, if you're on a budget but still want an excellent linear switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the way to go. Despite its lower price point, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow still delivers a fairly bouncy typing experience and a higher pitched clacky sound profile. These switches offer a clean and sharp resonant sound, perfect for those who prefer a higher-pitched auditory experience. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you enjoy a polished and creamy typing experience, these switches won't disappoint.
Ultimately, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch have their own unique features and qualities. It all comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in your typing experience. Whether you value a deeper, bassy sound and a gliding sensation or a higher-pitched, resonant sound and budget-friendly excellence, both switches offer a great typing experience. It's up to you to decide which one suits your needs and preferences the best.
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