Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Yellow, two exceptional linear switches from Gateron's G Pro lineup. While both switches offer a budget-friendly option, they differ in certain aspects, ultimately catering to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red is designed to provide a smooth typing experience with its medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Its frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out with its characteristic higher-pitched clacky sound profile and fairly bouncy type feel when typing. This switch offers a polished and resonant sensation, perfect for those who prefer a distinct tactile feedback. Both switches have their own unique advantages, 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Yellow switches have similar housing materials, with both featuring polycarbonate top housings. This polycarbonate material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. It is also beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency allows for better illumination. Despite having the same housing material, the color difference between the Red and Yellow switches can still provide different aesthetics when combined with RGB lighting.
On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Yellow switches have different bottom housing materials. The Red switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Yellow switch also features nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition. The nylon material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, typing on both the Red and Yellow switches can provide a similar experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel.
When it comes to the overall sound experience, the difference in top and bottom housing materials can play a role. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the G Pro 3.0 Red and Yellow switches can deliver unique typing experiences, with subtle variations in sound profiles during keypresses and key releases.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's 50 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Red requires a slightly lighter touch to activate a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly heavier force of 50 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's 67 grams. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 Red requires a lighter touch to activate, it requires a heavier press when bottoming out.
Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Red for its lighter actuation force, allowing them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing as much fatigue. This could be especially beneficial for those who use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel, as the heavier actuation force provides a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4 mm travel distance. Therefore, the results obtained from both switches will be similar in terms of the distance you feel when pressing a key. Both switches offer a comfortable and tactile typing experience with a consistent travel distance throughout.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red for $2.77.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 Red switch is considered a neutral switch with a moderate sound profile. This means that it strikes a good balance between a rich, bassy sound and a quieter, more subtle sound. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether they are using it at home or in a work environment. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch produces a higher-pitched clacky sound profile. This switch has a sharper and crisper sound when pressed, which some users may prefer if they do not like the more rich and bassy sound profiles of certain switches. Additionally, typing on the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch provides a fairly bouncy feel.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a creamy typing experience. This is due to either factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch. Typing on this switch feels smooth and buttery, as if your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys with each keystroke. It also falls into the category of mild switches, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch, on the other hand, shares the same polished feel as the G Pro 3.0 Red. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. It also provides a creamy sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly melt into each keystroke.
Taking all this information into consideration, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Yellow switches have distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Red switch offers a medium-light actuation force, resulting in a smooth typing experience. It has a medium-high pitch, providing a satisfying auditory experience. Meanwhile, the Yellow switch features a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy type feel. Both switches excel in delivering a budget-friendly linear switch experience. While they differ in sound and feel, they offer similar qualities in terms of being creamy and polished switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience and vibrant RGB lighting, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a great choice. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. In terms of feel, it provides a creamy and mild typing experience, offering smooth and effortless keystrokes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow will be more suitable for you. This switch delivers a clacky and resonant sound when pressed, providing an immersive auditory experience. Similar to the G Pro 3.0 Red, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also offers a polished and creamy typing experience, allowing your fingers to glide smoothly across the keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the G Pro 3.0 Red and G Pro 3.0 Yellow depends on your personal preferences. Both switches deliver a budget-friendly option with smooth typing and polished feel. Whether you prioritize a lighter actuation force and neutral sound profile (G Pro 3.0 Red) or a medium-heavy actuation force and higher-pitched sound profile (G Pro 3.0 Yellow), you can select the switch that best suits your typing style and auditory preferences.
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