Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Huano Sakura present two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is a tactile switch that provides a subtle bump with each keystroke, offering a satisfying tactile experience without disrupting your typing flow. It features a frosted light diffuser to enhance RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing choice for gamers and typists alike. Moreover, its medium-high pitch auditory feedback adds an enjoyable layer to your typing sessions. In contrast, the Huano Sakura is a linear switch designed for those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke. Its feather-light touch and medium acoustics make it an excellent choice for lengthy typing sessions, allowing users to glide effortlessly across the keyboard without the tactile interruptions found in other switches. While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is perfect for those who appreciate tactile feedback and visual aesthetics, the Huano Sakura offers a streamlined experience that prioritizes ease of use. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Huano Sakura switches, notable differences emerge, particularly in the top housing. The G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is characterized by its stiffness and translucency, resulting in a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile. This rigidity allows for a clear resonance that pairs well with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of illuminated keyboards. In contrast, the Huano Sakura features a POK top housing, known for its outstanding smoothness and durability. While both materials aim for a premium feel, the distinct sound characteristics between polycarbonate and POK offer different auditory experiences, making the G Pro 3.0 Brown sound brighter while the Sakura contributes to a smoother and more clacky sound.
The bottom housing for both switches shares a commonality as both utilize nylon, a classic and well-regarded material in the keyboard switch community. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb sound effectively, contributing to a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This similarity means that when both switches are pressed down, users will experience comparable sound characteristics and tactile feedback, as nylon's properties govern the bottom-out sound. Thus, regardless of the differences in the top housings, the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a rounded sound experience typical of nylon-based designs.
When pressing either the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Huano Sakura, the interaction of the two distinct housing materials creates a unique overall flavor in each switch. The polycarbonate top and nylon bottom of the G Pro 3.0 Brown lead to a unique contrast between clarity and depth, resulting in a brighter auditory experience upon release. Conversely, the Sakura with its POK top housing smooths out keystrokes, allowing for a more consistent and clacky typing experience. Although the bottom housing remains identical, it is the qualities introduced by the top housings that will principally influence the sound and feel of each switch upon actuation and release, making the tactile experience subtly different between the two, even if certain auditory characteristics remain similar due to the common use of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Brown requires an actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 63 grams, categorizing it as a medium-force switch. In contrast, the Huano Sakura features a significantly lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, placing it in the light-switch category. This means that the Sakura is easier to press, making it potentially more comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, especially for those who prefer lighter switches. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the G Pro 3.0 Brown may appeal to users seeking a more substantial feel and feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and tactile experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Huano Sakura linear switch measures at 3.6 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a longer travel distance compared to the Sakura, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced key press and a hearty depth. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Sakura might appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation with less key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: if you prioritize a more tactile feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be the better option, while those leaning towards a snappier and more responsive experience might prefer the Huano Sakura.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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 Brown switch produces a medium-high pitch sound that offers satisfying auditory feedback, enhancing the typing experience with a pleasant yet non-intrusive tone. This allows for an engaging auditory environment while typing. The Huano Sakura switch, on the other hand, features medium acoustics that lend themselves well to quieter operation, making it ideal for environments where minimal sound is preferable. Overall, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown adds a bit of character to each keystroke with its higher pitch, the Sakura provides a more subdued auditory profile, making it conducive for extended use without drawing attention.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is characterized by its easy-to-press action, requiring minimal force to activate, which makes each keystroke comfortable and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. It also features a mild tactile bump that provides a gentle distinction while typing, keeping the overall experience approachable without overwhelming the user. Additionally, the stepped nature of the switch gives it a two-stage feel, allowing a little pre-travel and post-travel sensation that enhances the typing feedback. The Sakura switch, however, is designed for a feather-light touch, offering smooth linear movement without any tactile feedback. This could provide a more seamless experience for those who prefer a fluid typing style without interruptions, making it distinct from the tactile bumps of the G Pro 3.0 Brown.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Huano Sakura switches offer unique benefits that cater to different types of typists. The G Pro 3.0 Brown excels in delivering an engaging sound profile and a tactile feel that enhances the typing experience through gentle resistance and feedback. Conversely, the Sakura’s feather-light touch and quiet acoustics make it an excellent choice for users seeking a smooth, linear feel for prolonged typing without auditory distractions. Depending on personal preference, those looking for tactile interaction may gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 Brown, while those who prefer a smooth, linear experience will likely favor the Sakura. Both switches serve their purposes effectively, creating enjoyable typing experiences tailored to user preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate a tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience without being too overwhelming, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is an excellent choice. With its medium actuation force of 63 grams, it provides a satisfying yet subtle bump that can make typing feel more engaging, making it ideal for typists who spend extended periods at the keyboard and enjoy a balanced auditory experience. The G Pro Brown's frosted light diffuser also contributes to a visually appealing RGB display, which may appeal to gamers or those who enjoy customization. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more effortless keystroke, the Huano Sakura with its lighter 45-gram bottom-out force is perfect for you. The Sakura's linear feel ensures a fluid transition from key press to bottom out, minimizing finger fatigue and allowing for faster typing speeds, which is particularly beneficial for gamers or writers who favor a seamless typing experience. Additionally, its medium acoustics make it a quieter option, making it suitable for shared spaces or when discretion is preferred. Ultimately, consider your personal preferences regarding feedback, sound, and tactile sensation to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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