Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the SP-Star Yanyu. Both switches offer superb typing experiences, but each excels in its own unique way. The G Pro 3.0 White, a linear switch, is perfect for individuals seeking a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. With an incredibly light actuation force of only 38g, it guarantees effortless and sensitive keystrokes, making it ideal for delicate typists. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic. On the other hand, the Yanyu, also a linear switch, caters to those who prioritize a more delicate typing experience or need to type for extended periods. Its material blend provides a crisp sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Yanyu switch offers a distinct typing sensation. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the SP-Star Yanyu differ in their housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Yanyu boasts a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Yanyu's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. This blend of materials gives the Yanyu a distinct auditory experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 White utilizes a nylon material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Yanyu combines polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its bottom housing. This unique blend also contributes to a pleasant sound profile, with a touch of brightness. With a different material used for the bottom housing, the Yanyu offers a contrasting auditory experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 White.
While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the SP-Star Yanyu have different materials for their top and bottom housings, the impact they have on the switch's sound profile is divided between the two parts. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, made of nylon in the G Pro 3.0 White and a polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend in the Yanyu, are felt. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing's characteristics become more apparent. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White and the unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the Yanyu contribute to the sound when a key is released. Despite their differences, both switches provide a distinct auditory experience for users, with the G Pro 3.0 White exhibiting a sharper and crisper sound, while the Yanyu boasts a pleasant and slightly brighter sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The G Pro 3.0 White has a relatively light actuation force of 38 grams, meaning it requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Yanyu's actuation force is unavailable, so we cannot make a direct comparison. However, both switches have a light bottom out force, with the G Pro 3.0 White requiring 45 grams and the Yanyu requiring 43 grams. Overall, both switches offer a lighter typing experience, which can be beneficial for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. Those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may find the G Pro 3.0 White to be the lighter option, while individuals seeking a slightly heavier touch could go for the Yanyu.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance traveled for both switches. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance for both switches.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 White switch is known for its clacky sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. This sound is more pronounced compared to most switches, providing a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch has a neutral sound profile, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is also described as thocky, meaning it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, like a deep "thud" or a soft "knock". Both switches offer different sound profiles, so the choice ultimately depends on the individual's preference.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is known for its creamy and easy-to-press characteristics. These switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. Typing on these switches feels silky and effortless, as if gliding your fingers across the keys. They also have an easy-to-press feature, requiring minimal force to activate, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience. It is exceptionally light to press, requiring little exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switch also has a subtle resistance, providing a gentle typing feel suitable for shared spaces. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch has a creamier and easier-to-press feel, while the Yanyu switch is lighter and subtler in its characteristics.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch and the SP-Star Yanyu switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 White provides a clacky sound profile with a creamy and easy-to-press typing feel, perfect for delicate typists looking for premium typing experience at a budget-friendly price. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a neutral sound profile with a mild and feathery typing feel, suitable for those who want a more delicate typing experience or need to type for long periods of time. Both switches provide unique qualities that can cater to different preferences. It's important to consider other factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps, as they can also affect the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In closing, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer a light and delicate typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer minimal actuation force. The G Pro 3.0 White is known for its budget-friendly option with a frosted light diffuser and medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. It has a clacky and neutral sound profile, along with creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle feel options. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are perfect for those who prioritize a delicate typing experience or need to type for extended periods. They have a crisp sound profile, neutral and thocky options for sound, and a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the SP-Star Yanyu switches depends on your preference for sound and feel, as both provide a light and responsive typing experience.
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