Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can significantly affect your typing experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is a favored choice among those who appreciate tactile feedback without overwhelming noise. Known for its economical pricing and thoughtful design, this switch provides a gentle tactile bump that enhances typing accuracy while maintaining a smooth flow. Its frosted light diffuser also elevates the aesthetic with vibrant RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch offers a distinct experience with its ultra-smooth keystrokes, thanks to its Ly stems, appealing to users who prefer a quieter and more fluid typing sensation. These switches are characterized by a resonant sound profile that can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy sound feedback. Ultimately, the G Pro Brown is ideal for those who value tactile feedback, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) caters to those who prioritize smoothness and silence. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
64g
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 switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a similar acoustic experience despite their different origins. The use of polycarbonate is essential to the sound signature, allowing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its rigidity and translucency. This property not only contributes to a clearer resonance when a key is pressed but also enhances the visual aesthetics when RGB lighting is applied. Since both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, users can expect a comparable sound clarity and light diffusion, resulting in a vibrant visual display when illuminated.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, a classic material known for its sound-dampening qualities. Nylon’s softness absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a deeper, fuller auditory profile when typing. This means that when a key is bottomed out, the nylon makes a significant impact on the sound, producing a duller yet rounder tone, contrasting with the crisper sound profile created by the polycarbonate top. Consequently, this division of sound characteristics offers users a balanced auditory experience, with the tomcat and G Pro 3.0 Brown switches potentially delivering somewhat similar acoustics thanks to their matched housing materials.
Ultimately, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) leverage a polycarbonate-nylon combination to produce a rich typing sound coupled with aesthetic appeal. Because the top and bottom housings of each switch share the same materials, the qualities will effectively complement each other. While the top housing contributes to the clarity of the sound on release, the bottom housing carries the richer, fuller tone during key actuation, resulting in a cohesive typing experience that is enjoyable for users seeking both performance and sensory satisfaction in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, their actuation forces are strikingly similar, with both requiring 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This similarity means that typists and gamers can expect a similar tactile response during normal usage. However, the bottom-out forces slightly differ, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown reaching 63 grams while the Tomcat (Heavy) has a marginally higher bottom-out force of 64 grams. This places the Tomcat in the medium-heavy category, making it feel subtly more substantial when pressed all the way down. In summary, both switches offer a light actuation, which benefits those who type or game for extended periods, but the G Pro 3.0 Brown is marginally lighter in bottom-out force compared to the Tomcat (Heavy), appealing to those who prefer a slightly less firm feel at the end of their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a more pronounced keypress experience with its deeper travel, appealing to users who prefer tactile feedback and a more substantial engagement. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) with its 3.6 mm travel distance is designed for faster response times, making it a suitable choice for gamers or those who prioritize speed in their typing or gaming experiences. Thus, if you value depth and tactile feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be the preferable option, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) caters to those who appreciate quicker, more responsive keystrokes.
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 (Heavy) 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 comparing the sound profile of the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is known for its medium-high pitch that offers satisfying auditory feedback while typing. This pitch can add a layer of engagement to your overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) produces a resonant sound profile that can be captivating in its own right. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also vary significantly based on factors like the keyboard you pair it with and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown boasts a gentle tactile sensation characterized by an easy-to-press mechanism; this makes key presses feel fluid and requires minimal force to activate, contributing to a comfortable typing experience. It incorporates a mild stepped tactile feedback, providing a hint of resistance without overwhelming the typist. In contrast, the feel of the Tomcat (Heavy) remains somewhat ambiguous and is not defined in the current information available; however, its linear design is typically smoother compared to tactile switches. This implies that while the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a nuanced tactile experience, the Tomcat (Heavy) may deliver a more straightforward, uninterrupted key press.
In conclusion, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch offer unique experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown excels in providing a balanced tactile feedback with a pleasant sound, making it suitable for typists who appreciate a little tactile nuance. Meanwhile, the Tomcat (Heavy) presents a smooth, resonant typing experience, albeit with less information available on its tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference; if you gravitate towards a tactile feel with satisfying auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is likely to be more appealing, while the Tomcat (Heavy) might be perfect for those who prefer a straightforward, linear response.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific needs and preferences. If you favor a balanced typing experience that offers a subtle tactile feedback without being overly pronounced, the G Pro 3.0 Brown will be your go-to option. This switch excels in casual and extensive typing sessions, as its mild tactile bump and easy-to-press nature minimize finger fatigue while still providing auditory satisfaction. It’s also a stellar choice if you want to showcase your RGB lighting, thanks to its frosted light diffuser. On the other hand, if you lean toward a heavier linear switch that delivers a super smooth, uninterrupted typing experience, the Tomcat (Heavy) might be the better fit. Its slightly higher bottom-out force gives it a more substantial feel, ideal for those who enjoy the sensation of grounding in their keystrokes. Moreover, the resonant sound profile may appeal to users looking for a unique auditory experience in their typing. In essence, your choice should align with whether you prefer a tactile experience with a gentle bump or a smooth, heavier feel to suit your typing style.
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