Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow are both popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer impressive features and exceptional performance. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is renowned for its gaming prowess, as it provides an unparalleled gaming experience with its lightning-fast responsiveness. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these linear switches offer a competitive advantage and deliver a satisfying auditory element with their medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out as the epitome of budget-friendly excellence in the realm of linear switches. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched clacky sound profile, coupled with a fairly bouncy type feel. Both switches bring their unique characteristics to the table, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow have similar housing materials, with both featuring polycarbonate top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful if you plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through and enhance the overall aesthetics of your keyboard. Therefore, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound and lighting effects with both the Silver and Yellow versions.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, you can expect a slightly different typing experience in terms of sound between the Silver and Yellow versions, with the Yellow version potentially offering a slightly deeper and fuller sound profile due to its nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on either the Silver or Yellow version will allow you to feel the qualities of the bottom housing, which has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have more impact on the sound when you let go of a key. Therefore, while the overall sound profile may be similar between the two switches, the tactile feedback and typing experience may vary slightly due to the different bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Silver requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke and offers a slightly softer typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires a slightly stronger push to activate and provides a more substantial typing feel. However, both switches fall within the medium-range in terms of bottom out force, so users can expect a similar level of resistance when fully pressing down on either switch. Overall, those seeking a lighter typing experience may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Silver, while individuals desiring a heavier and more satisfying push may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that both switches provide a consistent and uniform distance that users will feel when pressing down on a key. Whether it is the Silver or Yellow version, users can expect similar results and experiences in terms of the travel distance. Therefore, there is no difference in the travel distance between the two switches, ensuring a consistent typing or gaming experience regardless of the chosen switch variant.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. The medium-high pitch adds an exhilarating element to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches produce a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, resulting in a clean and sharp sound during typing. If you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches would be the preferred choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are ideal for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp sound.
In terms of feel, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and Yellow switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. Meanwhile, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are polished and creamy, offering a sleek and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches allow for ease of use and a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and Yellow switches have their distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silver switches provide a bassy sound profile and a buttery feel, while the Yellow switches offer a higher-pitched sound profile and a polished typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can choose the switch that suits your needs. However, note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the ideal choice for gamers seeking an exceptional gaming experience with lightning-fast responsiveness. With a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a shorter travel distance, these switches provide a competitive advantage. The Silver switches also feature a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. In terms of feel, the Silver switches offer a buttery and creamy typing experience, delivering a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation.
On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch excels in budget-friendly excellence for both gaming and typing. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches provide a satisfying typing experience. The Yellow switches produce a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile, offering a crisp and clean auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Yellow switches provide a polished and creamy typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the G Pro 3.0 Silver and G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches depends on your specific preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a competitive gaming advantage with lightning-fast responsiveness and a buttery typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the perfect option for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking a budget-friendly switch with a satisfying typing experience and a higher-pitched sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the ideal choice. Regardless of your decision, both switches offer exceptional value and performance.
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