Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black to the Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately notice the stark contrast in their characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, stands out for its heavy actuation and bottom-out force, providing a substantial typing experience favored by those seeking a more weighted feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow, also a linear switch, lacks specific standout features but may appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a medium-high pitch auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the Silent Yellow remains relatively unknown in terms of standout qualities. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Silent Yellow in terms of their housing materials, we can see that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their top and bottom housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, while its POM bottom housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, paired with a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in housing materials result in distinct auditory experiences for users of each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Silent Yellow offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing provides a clacky and pointed sound, while the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharp and resonant sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black contributes to a more muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Yellow enhances the depth and roundness of the sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a higher-pitched, clacky sound or a sharper, fuller sound.
While the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Silent Yellow may differ, they both offer quality sound experiences for users. The G Pro 3.0 Black's unique combination of INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing creates a balanced sound profile with a mix of high-pitched and deep tones. In contrast, the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provide a crisper and fuller sound profile that is equally satisfying. Whether you prioritize a clear, clacky sound or a sharp, resonant sound, both switches offer excellent options to enhance your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it becomes evident that the G Pro 3.0 Black is lighter in terms of actuation force at 60 grams compared to the Silent Yellow at 65 grams. However, in bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black is again lighter at 70 grams compared to the Silent Yellow at 80 grams, making it the overall lighter option. While both switches offer a medium to heavy actuation force, the Silent Yellow provides a heavier typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the more suitable choice, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch would cater more to individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that you will get a similar keypress experience with both switches. The 4 mm travel distance allows for a consistent and smooth keystroke, making them both suitable options for those looking for a linear switch with a medium travel distance. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a similar keypress feel, as they both have identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black 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 Black for $2.77.
The Outemu Silent Yellow comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is characterized as "clacky" and produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive sound experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch's sound qualities are unknown. It should be noted that the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors, including the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as offering a "creamy" and "silky" typing experience, providing smooth and buttery key presses with minimal resistance. The switch also offers a medium-heavy feel with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force. Conversely, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch's feel characteristics are unknown. Nonetheless, it is likely that the Silent Yellow switch will provide a similar smooth typing experience as the G Pro 3.0 Black switch, given its "silent" designation.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch stands out for its premium quality, budget-friendly price point, and medium-heavy feel, accompanied by a clacky sound profile. The switch also features a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting effects. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch remain unknown, it is likely to offer a smooth and silent typing experience similar to the G Pro 3.0 Black switch, making it a suitable option for those seeking a quieter keyboard experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and budget considerations.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, you should consider the weight of the switch. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force, along with a clacky and creamy typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a subdued sound and a subtle typing feel, the Silent Yellow may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.