Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Huano Sakura stand out as exceptional linear options, each bringing unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red is celebrated for its budget-friendly nature and a balanced actuation force that enhances responsiveness while remaining easy to press, making it a great choice for both gamers and typists. Its frosted light diffuser creates vibrant RGB lighting effects, which adds an aesthetic appeal to any setup, while its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience during use. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switches are designed for individuals who favor a feather-light touch, offering a smooth weightlessness that makes long typing sessions feel effortless. With their medium acoustics, these switches strike a comfortable balance between feedback and silence, catering perfectly to those who prioritize a quieter work environment. Both switches have their merits, but it's essential to consider personal preferences and intended use cases. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
50g
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 Red and the Huano Sakura switches, there are notable differences in their top housings, despite both switches utilizing nylon for their bottoms. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate (PC) top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for clearer sound resonance. Additionally, the polycarbonate's translucency enhances RGB lighting performance, making it an aesthetically appealing choice for gamers and enthusiasts who appreciate illuminated keyboards. In contrast, the Sakura's top housing is made from POK (polyketone), a material known for its smoothness and incredibly high durability. Although POK provides a different auditory experience, being characterized by a clackier sound profile, its qualities foster excellent switch performance.
Moving to the bottom housing, both switches share the same material—nylon—leading to a consistent auditory experience when the keys are bottomed out. Nylon is recognized for producing a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively compared to harder plastics. Therefore, regardless of the differences found in the top housings, users of both switches will experience a similar deep and rich acoustic result upon bottoming out. The nylon bottom housing enhances the tactile feedback and overall typing satisfaction, which remains consistent for both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Sakura.
In summary, while the G Pro 3.0 Red and Huano Sakura switches diverge in their top housing materials—polycarbonate versus POK—their shared nylon bottom housing creates a unified typing experience when considering the bottom-out sound and feel. The differences in sound profile and tactile feedback provided by the respective top housings reveal unique characteristics: the crispness of the PC versus the smoothness of the POK. Collectively, the houses' contrasting materials ensure that users can experience varied auditory qualities, while the nylon bottoms create a common thread of fulfillment in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, several distinctions emerge. The G Pro 3.0 Red features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Sakura is lighter, with an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Sakura switch requires less force to actuate a keystroke, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or marathon gaming, as it can minimize fatigue. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red, while still classified as light, offers a slightly more substantial push feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, which may appeal to those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Overall, users looking for a lighter touch will find the Huano Sakura preferable, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 Red.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it one of the traditional options that provides a deeper and more substantial feel when pressed. In contrast, the Huano Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, which caters to those who may prefer a more responsive keystroke, often favored by gamers for quicker reaction times. While both switches offer unique benefits, the G Pro 3.0 Red, with its longer travel distance, is suited for users who enjoy a heartier depth in their keystrokes, while the Sakura appeals to those seeking a more immediate response. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference regarding the feel and responsiveness of the keyboard.
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 Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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 presents a neutral profile characterized by a moderate actuation force and sound output. This balance makes it suitable for a variety of environments, whether one is a novice typing at home or a professional working in a shared space. The sound produced is neither too loud nor too quiet, allowing for a versatile auditory experience. On the other hand, while the specific sound characteristics of the Huano Sakura switch are not detailed, it is stated that it delivers medium acoustics. This suggests that, similar to the G Pro 3.0 Red, the Sakura would also be suitable for various settings, though its exact sound profile and how it compares to the G Pro remains unknown.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a creamy and silky typing experience, enhanced by its mild and polished characteristics. This combination allows for smooth, effortless key travel, making it particularly enjoyable for prolonged typing sessions. The factory lubricated elements create a refined sensation that minimizes friction and makes every keystroke feel satisfying. In contrast, the specific tactile feel of the Huano Sakura switch is not mentioned. However, its feather-light touch suggests an incredibly light actuation force, which likely facilitates a user-friendly typing experience, especially for extended use.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Huano Sakura switches are designed for comfort during typing sessions, though they exhibit different sound and tactile qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Red gives a refined auditory and tactile experience, while the Sakura appears to prioritize ease of use with its lightweight actuation. If sound acoustics play an important role in your setup, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a clearer understanding, whereas the Sakura's qualities remain somewhat ambiguous. Overall, both switches cater to users who aim for smooth and enjoyable typing experiences, albeit through slightly different approaches.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Huano Sakura linear switches should primarily depend on your typing preferences and use cases. If you're seeking a balance between responsiveness and comfort without overwhelming your fingers, the G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent choice, especially given its creamy and polished feel that allows for a smooth, buttery typing experience. This makes it ideal for both extended gaming sessions and daily work tasks where you want a reliable switch that offers a neutral sound profile and vibrant RGB lighting. On the other hand, if you prioritize a feather-light touch and enjoy moderate acoustics during long typing sessions, the Huano Sakura switch might be better suited for you. Its lighter bottom-out force can enhance the overall typing experience, particularly if you often type for extended periods and desire a softer response. Ultimately, aligning your switch choice with your personal preferences for tactile feedback and application will help you make the most of your mechanical keyboard.
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