Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Bsun Tomcat linear switches stand out, each catering to different preferences within the typing community. The G Pro 3.0 Black, renowned for its robust build and weighty 60g actuation with a 70g bottom-out force, delivers a satisfying, medium-heavy feel that many typists appreciate, particularly those seeking a more tactile and substantial typing experience. Its ability to enhance RGB lighting with a frosted light diffuser offers an aesthetically pleasing element to your setup. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches are distinguished by their Ly stems, which provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience, accompanied by a resonant sound profile that some users may find particularly appealing for both typing and gaming. While the G Pro 3.0 Black shines with its unique blend of weight and audibility, the Tomcat emphasizes fluidity and a harmonious sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Bsun Tomcat, we notice distinct differences in their top housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 features a proprietary INK blend, which is known for producing a pointed, high-pitched sound profile that is thin yet clacky. This distinctive sound is characterized by its satisfying auditory feedback, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a more lively typing experience. In contrast, the Tomcat utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, delivering a sharper and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances resonance, allowing for clear sound reproduction, particularly beneficial for those using RGB lighting since the material is also translucent. While both switches offer high-pitched sound profiles, the G Pro 3.0's blend provides a nuanced auditory experience, while the Tomcat's polycarbonate stands out for brightness and clarity.
The bottom housing also contrasts the two switches, illustrating how material choice influences sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 employs POM for its bottom housing, generating a deeper and more muted sound that contrasts with the brightness of its INK blend top. Meanwhile, the Tomcat's nylon bottom housing is known for its softer properties, resulting in a fuller, rounder sound. This difference is rooted in the materials; POM is stiffer, contributing to a sound that does not resonate as much, while nylon's softness allows it to absorb sound waves, leading to a more subdued auditory feedback. Consequently, when typing, each switch presents a unique combination of auditory experiences influenced by the bottom housing materials—POM providing clarity with a lower pitch and nylon enhancing warmth and depth.
Ultimately, even with different materials for both the top and bottom housings, the fundamental characteristics of each switch remain tied to the unique properties of their respective components. The G Pro 3.0's INK blend and POM combination culminates in a dynamic and lively typing experience, while the Tomcat’s polycarbonate and nylon pairing provides a sharper yet warmer feel. Both switches will ultimately yield distinctive outcomes due to the interplay between their materials. This shows that while they might diverge in their auditory qualities, understanding the effects of specific housing materials can lead to a tailored typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their sound preferences and desired tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch with the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, accommodating those who favor a softer touch—ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. As a result, users looking for a lighter switch will find the Tomcat more appealing, while those who appreciate a stronger push feel should lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black. Though both switches provide good performance, their differing weights cater to distinct user preferences, highlighting the importance of choosing a switch that aligns with one's typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tomcat features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This slight difference may influence user experience significantly. Gamers often gravitate towards shorter travel distances, as the 3.6 mm of the Tomcat can provide quicker response times, making it an appealing choice for those seeking heightened responsiveness. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Black, with its traditional 4 mm travel, offers a more substantial depth that some users may find satisfying and less abrupt, catering to those who prefer a more deliberate keystroke. Consequently, the choice between these switches largely depends on personal preference for either a more responsive or a deeper typing experience.
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 Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is noted for its unique auditory characteristics, featuring a blend of clacky and subdued tones. This switch produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, making each keystroke articulated and lively. While it's not completely muted, the overall sound profile is less aggressive compared to more pronounced clacky switches, striking a balance for those who seek a bit of auditory feedback without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch's sound qualities remain largely unknown, so one can only speculate how it may compare; thus, additional information would be required to draw any definitive conclusions.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black is celebrated for its luxurious typing experience, characterized by creamy and silky sensations on each keystroke. The smoothness is likely enhanced by high-quality materials and possibly factory lubrication, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. This offers a delightful tactile feedback that feels satisfying while still providing a decent level of resistance that keeps typists engaged. The tactile experience promotes a gentle and subtle resistance, making it suitable for both long typing sessions and a variety of workspaces. Information regarding the feel of the Tomcat switch is not available, leaving a gap in directly comparing the two in this regard.
Considering both switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black presents itself as a compelling choice for those who enjoy a heavier linear switch with a satisfying audio profile and a smooth typing experience. Its characteristics suggest that it would work well for both casual typists and those who type extensively. The Tomcat switch, while lacking detailed specifications, is yet to be fully evaluated, leaving its unique qualities and performance open for exploration. Overall, while the G Pro is backed by specific characteristics that promise a rewarding typing experience, the Tomcat's potential remains intriguing without additional information.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom-out force of 70 grams, the G Pro 3.0 Black is an excellent choice. Its creamy and silky feel, paired with a clacky sound profile, makes it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile feedback that adds a gratifying sensation during extended typing sessions or gaming. This switch's amplified RGB lighting effects may also appeal to enthusiasts who want a visually striking keyboard setup. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch, the Bsun Tomcat with its medium-light 54 grams bottom-out force is designed for comfort and smoothness, perfect for those who type for long periods without exhaustion. Its resonant sound profile provides a unique auditory experience while typing. Therefore, if you favor quick key presses and a gentle resistance with a subtle sound signature, the Tomcat may be the way to go, especially in shared workspaces where noise reduction is appreciated. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether you prioritize a heavier, more pronounced feel or a lighter, smoother experience.
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