Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura are two options that stand out. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is renowned for its gentle tactile sensation that enhances typing without disrupting the flow. It also boasts a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback and features a frosted light diffuser that allows RGB lighting to shine brightly. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switches offer a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility that is pronounced yet not overwhelming. Both switches are categorized as mild, but the G Pro 3.0 Brown is described as easy-to-press and stepped, while the Purple Sakura is labeled as buttery and snappy. 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
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. Both switches offer similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and visual appeal with their polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of bottom housings, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Purple Sakura feature nylon materials. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which may appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience. The nylon bottom housings in both switches contribute to the overall typing feel and sound, providing a consistent experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are split between the two components. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer a balanced combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings, providing users with a well-rounded typing experience that caters to both sound and tactile preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium weight category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 63 grams, whereas the Purple Sakura requires 60 grams, making the G Pro 3.0 Brown slightly heavier. Overall, both switches provide a tactile typing experience, with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offering a slightly more substantial push feel. Depending on personal preference, users may opt for the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Purple Sakura for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Brown for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, both switches are suitable for various typing needs, providing similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura for faster response times, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, so regardless of the travel distance, users can expect similar tactile feedback when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown 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 Brown 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 Brown switch offers a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience with a delightful sound. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of situations without being too loud or too quiet. Both switches provide a pleasant typing sound that can add to the enjoyment of using your keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is characterized as being easy-to-press and mild, offering a low-impact typing experience with minimal resistance and fatigue. Additionally, it is described as having a stepped feel, providing a slightly different tactile sensation compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is known for its buttery downstroke and snappy response, offering a smooth and responsive typing experience that feels uniform and effortless. Both switches strike a balance between tactile feedback and typing comfort, ensuring a satisfying feel for different preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a medium-high pitch sound and easy-to-press feel, while the Purple Sakura offers a neutral sound and a buttery, snappy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, both switches are designed to deliver a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of overall satisfaction regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switches, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a subtle tactile sensation, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be a great choice. These switches offer a delightful typing experience with a medium-high pitch and a gentle bump that enhances your typing flow. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, the Purple Sakura switches would be more suitable for you. These switches provide a balanced tactility, a mild and neutral sound signature, and a buttery smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch - whether it's a gentle bump with a bright RGB lighting experience or a snappy response with a buttery downstroke.
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