Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Ink Yellow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is part of Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro lineup and is highly regarded for its gaming prowess. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, these linear switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive edge. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser enhances the vibrant RGB lighting, while the medium-high pitch adds an exhilarating auditory element to gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow is perfect for those who seek a typing experience between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. These linear switches offer a pleasant smoothness and clackiness, making typing sessions enjoyable. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches have different housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Due to its translucency, polycarbonate is ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. While both switches have unique characteristics, they both result in a satisfying thin and clacky sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a nylon material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Ink Yellow incorporates Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, often described as clacky. Thus, both switches provide a satisfying sound experience, albeit with slight variations.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes clear that the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as the absorption of sound and the material's softness, directly affect the typing experience when pressing down on the switches. On the other hand, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or INK blend, has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Ink Yellow have different top and bottom housing materials, the overall typing experience and resulting sound remain comparable, with slight variations in terms of pitch and sharpness.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences in their weight. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be a suitable choice. With its lower actuation and bottom out forces, it allows for easier keystrokes and is ideal for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions that require long hours of use.
However, for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Ink Yellow would be the better option. With its higher actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a more tactile and responsive typing experience, allowing for a more satisfying key press.
It is important to consider personal preferences when selecting a switch, as the actuation and bottom out forces can significantly impact the overall typing or gaming experience. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier feel, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Ink Yellow switches offer options for different preferences, providing users with choices that suit their individual needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, we find that the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ink Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, offering a standard depth and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, a travel distance of 3.5 mm is shallower and is often preferred by gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Ink Yellow with its shorter travel distance might be the better choice for you. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and if you prefer a deeper and more satisfying feel when typing, the G Pro 3.0 Silver with its longer travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is best known for its gaming performance and value. In terms of sound, this switch produces a bassy and low-pitched tone, giving it a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. The medium-high pitch adds an exhilarating auditory element to gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes. It is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is characterized by a buttery and creamy typing experience. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless sensation. The Ink Yellow switch, on the other hand, offers a milder typing experience. It is gentle and approachable, falling into a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, it is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is known for its gaming performance, with a bassy sound profile and a buttery typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a clacky sound and a milder, polished typing feel. Both switches provide different subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. However, it's important to keep in mind that the actual experience can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Ink Yellow, you can expect a quality typing experience with their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a gamer looking for an exceptional gaming experience with lightning-fast responsiveness, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the way to go. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams and shorter travel distance, these switches give you a competitive advantage in gaming while still providing value for your money. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches also offer vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch that adds an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is the better choice. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy feel. They are characterized by a smooth and clacky sound, providing a pleasant typing experience. Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches depends on your specific needs and preferences in terms of gaming or typing experience, bottom out force, sound profile, and feel.
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