Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Huano Sakura are two noteworthy options that cater to different typing preferences, despite both being linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 White is renowned for its budget-friendly pricing and incredibly light actuation force of just 38g, which makes it a great choice for delicate typists seeking effortless keystrokes. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, while the medium-high pitch offers satisfying auditory feedback, creating a dynamic typing experience at an accessible price point. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switches also prioritize a smooth typing experience, with a feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making them ideal for those who type for extended periods without fatigue. While both switches provide a luxurious feel and responsive action, they cater to different user experiences—whether it's the vibrant and customizable RGB aesthetic of the G Pro 3.0 White or the comfortable, subdued typing of the Sakura. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your unique typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Huano Sakura, notable differences emerge between their top housing compositions. The G Pro 3.0 White utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This stiffness results in a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it an excellent choice for key switches meant to produce a clear audio experience. Furthermore, its clear nature makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Huano Sakura employs POK material for its top housing. POK, or polyketone, contributes to a smooth, clacky sound and is renowned for its remarkable durability—significantly outperforming traditional materials like POM in terms of wear and shock resistance. While both materials enhance the overall sound, the G Pro 3.0 White is likely to provide a more resonant tone, while the Sakura offers a smooth tactile experience.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches share the same material: nylon. This classic housing material is instrumental in shaping the auditory feedback during key presses. Nylon is softer compared to alternative plastics, leading to a deeper and fuller sound as it absorbs more sound energy. Consequently, both the G Pro 3.0 White and the Huano Sakura will produce a similar bottom-out sound that is round and rich, effectively contrasting with the character of their respective top housing materials. This shared nylon bottom ensures that regardless of the top housing material chosen, the switches will deliver a consistent auditory experience during key presses.
Ultimately, the distinctive top housing materials of both switches shape their sound profiles while their shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent bottom-out experience. The G Pro 3.0 White's polycarbonate top delivers a high-pitched and crisp sound, compatible with illuminating features, while the Huano Sakura's POK provides excellent smoothness and durability that results in a clacky sound. Therefore, users can expect differing sound experiences based on the top housing, while still enjoying a common auditory richness in the lower sound profile attributable to the nylon bottom. This combination allows enthusiasts to select their preferred switch based on desired features—whether it be the bright aesthetics of the G Pro 3.0 or the smooth feel of the Sakura—while still achieving a complementary auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, we can observe both similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 White has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Sakura switch features a slightly lighter actuation force of 35 grams, but shares the same bottom out force of 45 grams with the G Pro 3.0 White. This means that while both switches have the same bottoming out force, the Sakura switch is lighter when it comes to actuation, making it potentially more suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions for those who prefer a lighter feel. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 White provides a marginally heavier typing experience due to its higher actuation force, which some users might prefer for a more substantial tactile feedback. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter option, the Huano Sakura would be the better choice, while the G Pro 3.0 White appeals to those who enjoy a slightly firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in key feel and responsiveness. The G Pro 3.0 White boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional and can provide a satisfying depth, making it suitable for those who enjoy a well-defined keystroke. In contrast, the Huano Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to gamers or users who prioritize quicker response times for a more immediate tactile experience. While both switches offer linear feedback, the Sakura’s reduced travel distance may feel more abrupt to some users, whereas the G Pro 3.0 White allows for a more cushioned and deliberate press. Ultimately, those who prefer a slightly deeper and more traditional keystroke would choose the G Pro 3.0 White, while those looking for efficiency and swiftness might lean towards the shorter-traveling Huano Sakura switch.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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 White switch features a medium-high pitch that produces a satisfying auditory feedback with a clacky nature, giving a bright and percussive sound when pressed. This can enhance the tactile experience for users who appreciate auditory cues while typing. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch is noted for its medium acoustics, providing a more subdued auditory experience. While detailed descriptors for the Sakura's sound profile are not provided, the emphasis on medium acoustics suggests it may appeal to those who prefer a less pronounced sound, making it suitable for quieter environments.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 White showcases several qualities, including a creamy and silky smooth typing experience that makes it a pleasure to type on during extended sessions. With an incredibly light actuation force of 38g, it is described as both easy-to-press and feathery, allowing for effortless keystrokes and reduced finger fatigue. The Sakura switch, while not detailed extensively, is labeled as having a feather-light touch, indicating an easy and comfortable typing feel similar to that of the G Pro 3.0 White. Both switches cater to typists looking for a gentle resistance, emphasizing comfort over forceful actuation.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Huano Sakura switches are designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, especially for those who type for extended periods. The G Pro 3.0 White is characterized by its clacky sound and luxurious feel, making it a versatile choice for gamers and typists alike, while the Sakura offers an appealing alternative with its medium acoustics and light touch. While the sound profiles differ—one being brighter and more pronounced versus the other being milder—the lighter feel is a common hallmark of both switches, ensuring that users will find comfort regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, your choice should be guided by your typing preferences and environment. If you are seeking a light, responsive switch that excels in delivering a smooth, creamy feel and a satisfying auditory feedback—ideal for both leisurely typing and gaming—the G Pro 3.0 White is an excellent option. Its crisp, clacky sound profile, coupled with its impressive RGB compatibility, makes it a great fit for those who value aesthetics alongside performance. On the other hand, if you prioritize a feather-light touch with moderate acoustics that enable comfortable and extended typing sessions, the Huano Sakura switch is likely the better choice, providing a more subdued auditory experience. It’s particularly suited to office settings or quiet environments where noise is a consideration. Ultimately, consider how you plan to use your keyboard and the importance of factors like sound and feedback for your personal typing experience; both switches offer unique benefits tailored to varying needs.
Mentioned in this article
