Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for an enhanced typing or gaming experience, the choice often comes down to personal preference and specific usage needs. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches stand out for their exceptional value in the budget-friendly range, boasting a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, which allows for rapid key presses and quicker response times—an asset for competitive gaming. With a medium-high pitch that lends a thrilling auditory quality to each stroke and a vibrant RGB lighting feature made even more striking by the frosted light diffuser, these switches are designed to elevate both performance and aesthetics. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches are celebrated for their incredibly smooth typing experience, thanks to their unique Ly stems. While they might lack some of the flashy elements of the G Pro Silvers, their resonant sound profile provides an enjoyable tactile feedback that appeals to many typists and gamers alike. While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver excels in responsiveness and gaming performance, the Tomcat prioritizes a silky feel and satisfying acoustics. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Bsun Tomcat both feature polycarbonate in their top housings, creating a striking similarity in their sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. Both switches harness the unique properties of polycarbonate, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This rigidity contributes to a crisp, higher-pitched sound that defines their typing experience, making them particularly appealing for users who prioritize audible feedback. Additionally, the polycarbonate material allows for RGB lighting to shine through brightly and vividly, enhancing the visual aesthetics of keyboards equipped with these switches. Such parallel characteristics ensure that both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Tomcat deliver a clear and resonant sound profile when activated, promising a similar auditory experience for users.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Tomcat utilize nylon, which significantly differentiates their acoustic properties from their top counterparts. Nylon is recognized for its softer nature, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This material's ability to absorb sound leads to a noticeably different tactile feel and bottom-out sound compared to the crisper tone produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches benefit from the nylon's sound-dampening qualities, which adds richness to the overall sound experience. The combination of these two distinct materials—polycarbonate on top and nylon at the bottom—creates a unique synergy that enhances the feel and sound characteristics of the switches.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials on user experience, it's essential to acknowledge that the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Bsun Tomcat provides optimal acoustic feedback. Users can expect that the polycarbonate top will influence how the sound resonates upon key release, while the nylon bottom will cushion and deepen the sound quality upon key presses. This division of labor between the housing materials allows for a well-rounded typing experience, with each switch uniquely contributing to sound and feel. Ultimately, both models embrace a philosophy of utilizing high-quality materials to create satisfying auditory and tactile responses, ensuring they cater effectively to enthusiasts and casual users alike.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, both exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, offering a similar light touch when typing. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is slightly lighter at 50 grams compared to the Tomcat's 54 grams. This means that while both switches are equally easy to activate, the Tomcat requires a bit more force to fully depress, resulting in a more substantial feel. Therefore, for users who favor a lighter overall experience suited for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be the better choice. Conversely, those who prefer a heavier feeling that provides more resistance during bottoming out may find the Tomcat switch more appealing. Ultimately, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the lighter switch, while the Tomcat falls into the medium-light category.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Tomcat switch offers a more profound keystroke experience, which some users may favor for its traditional feel, as 4.0 mm is typically seen as the standard. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver is advantageous for gamers who prefer quick response times and a more tactile feel. Therefore, if you are looking for enhanced responsiveness, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the optimal choice, while those who appreciate a deeper keystroke might opt for the Bsun Tomcat linear switch for its longer travel distance.
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 Bsun Tomcat 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 it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches stand out with their bassy and low-pitched qualities, producing a rich and deep auditory profile during key presses. This resonant sound can be characterized as thocky, offering a satisfying acoustic feedback that many typists and gamers find enjoyable. The unique sound profile can enhance the overall experience, creating an immersive feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the Bsun Tomcat linear switch remain unspecified, making it difficult to directly compare the auditory experience between the two. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound can vary depending on the specific keyboard and keycap combination that you choose.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is celebrated for its buttery and creamy sensations, allowing for smooth and fluid keystrokes. Users can expect a seamless and effortless typing experience, akin to gliding across the keys without resistance. This delightful tactile quality contributes significantly to its appeal, especially for fast-paced gaming or intensive typing sessions. Conversely, the feel of the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is currently unknown, restricting any direct comparison. It remains unclear how this switch would stack up against the creamy smoothness of the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches clearly excel in both sound and feel, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch presents an unknown factor, particularly in auditory experience and tactile feedback. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches provide a distinctive auditory experience with their rich, low-pitched sound and a wonderfully smooth keystroke feel, making them a valued option for enthusiasts and gamers alike. If you're seeking a dual offering of satisfying sound and effortless typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is your best bet, while the Tomcat's qualities remain to be explored.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific needs and preferences. If you're primarily focused on gaming and seek a switch that delivers rapid responsiveness, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is an excellent choice due to its lightweight actuation force and shorter travel distance, allowing for quick key presses and giving you a competitive edge. This switch also boasts a rich, thocky sound profile that can enhance the gaming experience, combined with a buttery, creamy feel that ensures a smooth keystroke. On the other hand, if you prioritize a satisfying typing experience and prefer a slightly heavier actuation force, the Tomcat switch might suit you better. Known for its super smooth performance and a resonant sound profile, the Tomcat provides a unique auditory pleasure, making it ideal for long typing sessions while still delivering a solid response. Overall, your choice between these switches should align with whether you lean more towards a competitive gaming environment or an enjoyable typing experience.
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