Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches like the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Dareu Holly, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch that offers a budget-friendly option with a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a polished and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly is a tactile switch with a medium 50g actuation force, providing a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements for a balanced and distinctive typing feel. Each switch offers its own set of attributes that cater to different preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Dareu Holly feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housing of these switches allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for those who value sound quality in their mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting, adding a dynamic and colorful element to your typing experience.
On the other hand, both switches also include nylon bottom housings, which offer a different typing experience compared to the polycarbonate top housings. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a more muted typing experience.
While both switches share similar housing materials in terms of polycarbonate and nylon, the distribution of these materials in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Dareu Holly may lead to subtle differences in sound and feel. The impact of the bottom housing will be more noticeable when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these distinctions, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and typing experience from both switches.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch is the same at 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is heavier at 67 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Holly switch. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a medium-heavy typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Holly switch offers an unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be preferred by those who like a stronger push feel for a substantial typing experience, while the Holly switch's weight is unknown, making it difficult to compare. Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Dareu Holly switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm, making them both equally responsive and satisfying to type on. With both switches offering the same travel distance, users can expect a consistent and comfortable typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. The similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key travel and tactile feedback, making it a matter of personal preference when deciding between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 Yellow switch offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile that is engaging and immersive. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch features a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, creating a distinctive sound signature that caters to users seeking a balanced and refreshing auditory experience. The chirpy sound adds a playful tone to typing, while the clacky sound delivers a sharp and snappy response that is both bright and percussive. Overall, both switches offer different but enjoyable sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience based on individual preferences and needs.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is known for its polished and creamy typing sensation, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek and luxurious typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel provided by the polished switch make typing on it effortless and enjoyable. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Dareu Holly switch is unknown. However, based on the available data, it can be assumed that the medium 50g actuation force of the Holly switch may provide a balanced and comfortable typing feel that caters to users looking for a tactile response without being too heavy or too light.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch offer unique and distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a high-pitched and resonant sound profile coupled with a polished and creamy typing experience, the Holly switch delivers a chirpy and clacky sound signature with a tactile response that may offer a comfortable and balanced typing feel. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their needs and enhances their overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch or the Dareu Holly tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, and a polished or creamy typing feel, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, a unique sound signature combining chirpy and clacky elements, and a neutral typing feel, then the Holly switch might suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal typing preferences and needs.