Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out as a linear switch, offering a medium-heavy typing experience with a 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. Its medium-high pitch sound and vibrant RGB lighting effects make it a compelling choice for those seeking a premium feel at an affordable price. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura is a tactile switch known for its snappy response and buttery downstroke. With a delicate balance of tactility that is pronounced yet not overpowering, these switches provide a mild and neutral sound signature for a satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, it is evident that both switches utilize different housing materials to achieve distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a clacky and relatively high-pitched sound, while the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura results in a stiffer plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound profile. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing elicits a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura aim to provide a unique typing experience through their sound profiles. The split between the top and bottom housings in each switch allows for a combination of qualities that impact both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. While the G Pro 3.0 Black emphasizes a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound with its INK blend top housing, the Purple Sakura focuses on creating a sharp and resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing offers an incredibly pleasing deep sound, contrasting with the fuller and duller sound produced by the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura plays a crucial role in shaping their sound profiles and overall typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a combination of INK blend and POM for sharp and deep sound characteristics, the Purple Sakura adopts polycarbonate and nylon for crisp and fuller sound qualities. Regardless of their differences, both switches aim to provide users with a unique and satisfying typing experience that caters to their sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Purple Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a smoother typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch. Those who prefer a medium actuation and bottom out force may find that both switches offer similar results in terms of typing comfort and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Purple Sakura provides a slightly shallower keypress. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura for faster response times, while those who enjoy a deeper keypress may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Black. Overall, the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura may provide a quicker and more responsive typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more tactile feel with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 known for its clacky and somewhat subdued sound profile. This means that when pressing the keys, you can expect a sharp and snappy sound that is not too overwhelming or loud. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a more neutral sound experience. This means that the sound produced is moderate and not too distracting, making it suitable for various environments. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the G Pro 3.0 Black is praised for its creamy, silky, and subtle typing experience. This translates to a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, with minimal resistance and a gentle sound signature. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a buttery, mild, and snappy typing experience. This means that the switch provides a fluid and uniform feel with a more gentle response compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a smoother and slightly heavier feel, while the Purple Sakura provides a more delicate and responsive touch.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it's clear that both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch have their own unique qualities to offer. The G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a heavier and more pronounced typing experience with a clacky sound profile, while the Purple Sakura stands out for its buttery and snappy feel with a neutral sound signature. Depending on your preferences for typing feel and sound, you can choose between these switches to achieve similar results in terms of quality and performance. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a balanced feel and medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black is for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a creamy, silky, or subtle typing sensation, this switch is a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing force and a snappy, buttery downstroke sound, the Purple Sakura switch may better suit your needs. Its tactile feedback is pronounced yet gentle, making it suitable for various typing preferences. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and desired sound and feel for an optimal typing experience.
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