Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer distinct features to cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch that is ideal for delicate typists looking for effortless keystrokes with its light actuation force of 38g. Its bright RGB lighting and satisfying auditory feedback make typing an enjoyable experience without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura is a tactile switch known for its snappy response and buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. Both switches fall under categories like 'Mild' and 'Neutral', providing a smooth typing experience. 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
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that make use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Both switches offer a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal with their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White and Purple Sakura differ in their bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 White comes with a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Purple Sakura also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile when typing on the switches. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience with their nylon bottom housings.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Sarokeys Purple Sakura differ in their bottom housing material, they both offer similar sound profiles and typing experiences with their polycarbonate top housings. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing provides a deep and full sound when typing. These switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, we find that the G Pro 3.0 White is lighter in both categories. The G Pro 3.0 White has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their force requirements, with the G Pro 3.0 White being lighter and the Purple Sakura being heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 White has a longer travel distance compared to the Purple Sakura. The G Pro 3.0 White provides more depth when pressing down on the key, which may be preferred by some individuals who enjoy a more traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a suitable option for those who value faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the typing experience that you prefer.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White for $3.27.
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch have a neutral sound profile. The G Pro 3.0 White offers a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, while the Purple Sakura provides a mild and neutral sound signature. The difference in sound between the two switches may be subtle, and both can offer a comfortable typing experience depending on your preference for sound feedback.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, providing a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery and snappy, offering a smooth and fluid typing sensation with a responsive feel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, but the G Pro 3.0 White focuses on light actuation force for gentle keystrokes, while the Purple Sakura emphasizes a snappy response for a more dynamic typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 White is characterized by its light actuation force and medium-high pitch sound, the Purple Sakura provides a snappy response and buttery downstroke. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their unique qualities, catering to different preferences for sound feedback and typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and typing experience, but rest assured that you can achieve satisfying results with either option.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer an incredibly light actuation force and a clacky sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 White may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium actuation force with a buttery downstroke and a snappy response, the Purple Sakura could be the ideal switch for your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing feel and sound characteristics you value most.
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