Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Huano Grape Orange

Overview

When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Huano Grape Orange both present unique features that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is celebrated for its budget-friendly nature and its distinctive higher-pitched clacky sound profile that adds a lively element to every keystroke, paired with a bouncy feel that many typists appreciate. This makes it an attractive choice for users seeking a tactile feedback with vibrant acoustics without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange sets itself apart with its remarkably light 40g actuation force, making it an ideal pick for those who endure long typing sessions or prefer a softer touch. While both switches fall under the linear category, the subtle nuances in their sound and feel create a significant impact on user 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

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Linear

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Huano Grape Orange utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience, attributable to its stiffness as a material. This stiffer plastic not only amplifies the clarity of the sound produced by the switch but also enhances its resonance, providing a premium feel during typing. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for an aesthetically pleasing display of RGB lighting, a feature that many users look for when customizing their mechanical keyboards. Since both switches share this identical material for their tops, users can expect similar sound qualities and visual effects when utilizing RGB lights.

In contrast, the bottom housings of these two switches diverge very little, as both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Grape Orange are designed with nylon for their bottoms. Nylon is a well-established material in mechanical switches, known for its sound absorption properties. Its relatively softer plastic contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile, allowing the bottom-out sound to feel more rounded and satisfying when typing. This consistency in bottom housing material between the switches means that both will offer a plush auditory sensation during use, creating a delightful typing feel regardless of whether one chooses the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Huano Grape Orange.

Considering the design and materials, both switches deliver a compelling balance of sound dynamics and feel. Users can expect both crispy highs from the polycarbonate tops and warm, rounded lows from the nylon bottoms, leading to an engaging typing experience. For typists and gamers alike, the subtle but marked differences in the switches’ sound and tactile feedback will ultimately be influenced more by personal preference than by material choice. As such, if one appreciates the auditory experience provided by the shared polycarbonate top housing and the nylon bottom, they can enjoy similar results regardless of which switch they choose.

Weight

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch differ notably in both actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for tactile feedback. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, designating it as medium-heavy, while the Grape Orange presents a lighter feel with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is better suited for users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Grape Orange, being the lighter option, is more favorable for prolonged typing sessions, making it suitable for users who prioritize comfort and ease during extended use. Overall, the differences in force specifications imply that users will experience distinct tactile feedback with these switches, catering to both heavier and lighter preferences in typing or gaming sessions.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, we find a notable difference. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Grape Orange's travel distance is shorter at 3.6 mm. This means that if you favor a more pronounced keystroke, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow would provide a more substantial feel, catering to users who appreciate depth in their switches. Conversely, the Grape Orange's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a longer journey from top to bottom, while the Grape Orange presents a more responsive, albeit shallower, keystroke experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Huano Grape Orange switches, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out with its distinctively higher-pitched and clacky audio signature. This sound is both resonant and sharp, providing an engaging auditory feedback that many typists find pleasurable. In contrast, the Grape Orange's sound characteristics remain unspecified, leaving a gap in understanding its auditory presence. However, any keyboard's overall sound will be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard plate and keycap material, which could mean that the Grape Orange may still deliver a satisfying acoustic experience depending on those variables.

In terms of tactile feedback, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is noted for its polished and creamy feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience that can be attributed to either higher-quality materials or the application of factory lubing. The result is a delightful glide across the keys, reducing friction significantly. Unfortunately, the feel of the Huano Grape Orange is not described, making it challenging to provide a direct comparison. Nevertheless, the starkly smooth experience of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow suggests that it would likely provide a superior tactile sensation, particularly for those who enjoy seamless keystrokes.

Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch excels in both sound and feel, offering a high-pitched, resonant audio profile complemented by a polished and creamy tactile experience. The absence of specific qualities for the Huano Grape Orange leaves some uncertainty, but the G Pro 3.0 Yellow effectively sets high expectations for a satisfying typing experience. If sound and feel are pivotal to your typing requirements, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is likely to meet those needs impressively, while the Grape Orange may still offer some hidden gems if paired with the right components.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Huano Grape Orange linear switches largely depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you use your keyboard. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch that offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is an excellent option, especially for those who enjoy a bouncy feel with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile. This makes it suitable for both typing and gaming, especially if you appreciate a more tactile response while maintaining a budget-friendly approach. On the other hand, if your priority is a light, effortless typing experience, particularly for long sessions, the Huano Grape Orange—with its ultra-low actuation force of just 50 grams—will likely be more to your liking. Its smooth and uncomplicated feel not only caters to those who typists favor a gentle touch but also helps reduce hand fatigue over extended use. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your specific typing habits, sound preferences, and comfort level, ensuring that you select a switch that enhances your overall keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Linear

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

Learn more

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more