Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Bsun Tomcat 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 Bsun Tomcat offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is a tactile switch that provides a gentle bump with each key press, ideal for those who appreciate feedback without being overwhelmed. This switch is particularly well-loved for its budget-friendly price point, quality performance, and enhanced RGB illumination thanks to its frosted light diffuser. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat is a linear switch, designed for a smoother and quieter typing experience. With its Ly stem, it offers a fluid keystroke that many gamers and typists favor for rapid key presses and minimal resistance. While the G Pro Brown excels in delivering tactile feedback and an audible response that enriches the typing experience, the Tomcat prioritizes a seamless glide, making each keystroke effortless. Each switch presents compelling reasons to consider them based on what you value in keyboard performance. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Bsun Tomcat both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which significantly influences their acoustic characteristics and aesthetic design. The polycarbonate material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributed to its stiffness. This property allows for clearer resonance when keys are pressed or released. Additionally, its translucency is an asset for those who utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the visual effects and overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. Since both models incorporate this material for their top housings, users can expect a similar auditory experience in terms of sound clarity and brightness when typing.
In contrast, both switches also share nylon as their bottom housing material, which offers a different auditory characteristic. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more than stiffer materials like polycarbonate. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, creating a rounder and more muted bottom-out sound when a key is pressed. Because of the duality of housing materials, users will appreciate the synthesis of sound profiles produced when employing both switches. While the top housing from polycarbonate brightens and sharpens the acoustic feedback, the nylon bottom housing complements it by providing a warm and fuller tonal depth.
By blending the properties of these materials, the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Tomcat allow for a nuanced typing experience. Each component of the switch contributes to its overall sound and feel during use. The distinct roles of the polycarbonate top and the nylon bottom can yield a well-rounded typing experience, where the bright tones of the top housing are balanced by the softer, fuller sounds produced by the bottom. Therefore, even if one switch feels different in terms of tactile feedback, the shared materials ensure that both deliver a satisfactory auditory and tactile performance, appealing to both casual typists and enthusiasts alike.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Brown features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight switch, ideal for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Tomcat switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that users will find the Tomcat switch easier to press, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. While both switches provide satisfactory feedback during use, the G Pro 3.0 Brown demands a heavier push, catering to those who prefer a more tactile sensation, whereas the Tomcat offers a gentler touch for those seeking a lighter feel in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there is a noticeable difference: the G Pro 3.0 Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tomcat has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you're looking for a switch that offers a more substantial feel with a deeper keypress, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be the better choice. Conversely, if you're seeking a switch that allows for quicker response times commonly favored by gamers, the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the Tomcat could be more appealing. This distinction highlights the preferences that can arise based on a user's desired typing experience—depth versus speed. Ultimately, if you're leaning toward a balance of responsiveness and depth, you should consider what sensations these different travel distances provide in practice.
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 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 considering the sound profile of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch, one can expect a medium-high pitch that provides satisfying auditory feedback during typing sessions. This characteristic adds a pleasant layer of sound that enhances the overall experience without being overly intrusive. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch is noted for its resonant sound profile, which suggests a smoother, deeper tone that can make for a quieter typing experience while still resonating nicely with each keystroke. Both switches, while differing in specificity, contribute to an engaging acoustic atmosphere during use and can potentially be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, requiring minimal force to engage while providing a gentle tactile feedback through its stepped design. This makes it accessible to all types of typists, ensuring comfort even during prolonged use. The combination of responsive actuation and a mild bump makes it a versatile option for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Tomcat switch is characterized by its super smooth feel, primarily attributed to its Ly stems, which can make for an effortlessly fluid typing motion. However, the specific characteristics related to tactile feedback and actuation force for the Tomcat switch remain unspecified, leaving some uncertainty about how it contrasts with the G Pro in this aspect.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and Bsun Tomcat switches present distinctive qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown stands out with its tactile feedback and satisfactory sound, making it an excellent choice for users looking for a balanced and responsive experience. In contrast, the Tomcat's smoothness and resonant sound profile may appeal to those looking for a more streamlined and quiet option. Ultimately, both switches can provide an enjoyable typing experience, though their differences could significantly influence your final selection based on personal typing style and sound preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the type of work or gaming you engage in. If you appreciate a tactile feedback that is subtle yet satisfying, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is a fantastic option. Its medium bottom out force of 63 grams provides a balanced typing experience, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. The tactile bump can enhance your typing accuracy, which is beneficial if you spend a lot of time typing documents or coding. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother and quieter experience, especially for gaming or fast-paced typing, the Tomcat switch is a great choice. With a lighter actuation force of 54 grams, it allows for a more effortless keystroke, making it easier to execute rapid key presses without the tactile feedback that could slow you down. Its resonant sound profile adds a pleasant auditory experience, which might appeal to those who appreciate a softer sound while typing or gaming. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize tactile feedback and moderate resistance over smoothness and lightness in your key presses.
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