Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the distinct characteristics of each type can significantly impact your typing experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch stands out as a budget-friendly option known for its engaging typing experience with a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback while typing. This polished switch delivers a combination of creamy smoothness and resonant acoustics that can make the act of typing feel lively and enjoyable. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura offers a more subdued and silent alternative, perfect for users who prioritize discretion and comfort, especially in shared or office environments. Featuring an ultra-light touch that reduces finger fatigue during extended sessions, this switch caters to those looking for a gentle and quiet typing experience. While both switches are linear and designed to provide a smooth keystroke, they cater to different preferences and use cases. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When it comes to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Bsun Light Sakura switches, both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice is significant, as polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which enhances the overall acoustic experience of the switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant sound, and the material's translucency further amplifies its effectiveness, particularly in setups featuring RGB lighting. Thus, users can expect similar auditory results when engaging with these two switches, particularly in the context of visual aesthetics if both switches are illuminated.
Conversely, the comparison of the bottom housings reveals a divergence between the two switches. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, a material known for its softer characteristics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a striking contrast to the crisper output generated by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Light Sakura. The nylon absorbs a significant amount of sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. Therefore, while the top housing of both switches aids in generating a bright sound, the bottom housing produces distinctly different tonal qualities, affecting the overall feel and sound when typing or gaming.
In summary, the combination of the polycarbonate top in both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Bsun Light Sakura results in consistent high-pitched, clear sounds when keys are released. However, the varied bottom housing materials yield differing sound profiles; the G Pro 3.0 Yellow’s nylon bottom produces a deeper, more muted sound, while the Light Sakura's polycarbonate keeps the sharper sound characteristics consistent across both housing elements. This interplay between the two materials illustrates how the individual attributes of switch housings influence both auditory experience and tactile feedback, offering a unique typing experience depending on the choice of switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch to the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, there's a notable distinction in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Light Sakura is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming marathons would likely gravitate towards the Light Sakura, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantive typing experience may favor the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, thanks to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, while both switches serve their purposes, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers more resistance, making it better suited for users seeking a firmer touch, whereas the Light Sakura provides a softer feel ideal for prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, you'll find a notable difference between the two. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option that offers a deeper feel when pressed down. In contrast, the Light Sakura is shorter, with a travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those looking for a more responsive key press that aligns with modern gaming preferences. While the shorter travel distance of the Light Sakura may appeal to users who value quick response times, others might appreciate the more substantial feel of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. Ultimately, if you're seeking a switch with depth and a more pronounced key press, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the better choice, while the Light Sakura suits those who favor faster actuation.
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 Bsun Light 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 Light Sakura for $3.49.
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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch produces a distinctly high-pitched and resonant sound profile that gives a sharp and crisp auditory feedback when typing. This higher frequency can be quite satisfying for those who appreciate a more lively sound while using their keyboard. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura switch is designed to be silent, providing a discreet experience devoid of the clicking or clacking sounds that can disrupt a quiet workspace. This consideration makes it an excellent choice for office environments or shared spaces where noise could be a concern.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow excels in providing a polished and creamy typing experience. The smooth and refined finish ensures that each keypress is executed with minimal friction, allowing users to glide effortlessly across the keys. This buttery sensation is often enhanced by factory lubrication and the materials used in the switch, which results in a pleasurable tactile feedback. In contrast, specific insights regarding the feel of the Light Sakura switch are unknown, but its ultra-light design suggests a potentially softer touch that aligns with its comfort-oriented goals, making it suitable for extensive typing sessions.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a high-pitched and resonant sound, complemented by a smooth and creamy feel when typing. The Bsun Light Sakura, while silent, caters to users who need discretion without sacrificing comfort, especially during long periods of use. Both switches serve different preferences: one prioritizing sound and tactile feedback, while the other focuses on quiet operation and comfort. If you are looking for a vibrant typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a strong contender, whereas the Light Sakura is ideal for those who value silence and ease of use.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and specific use cases. If you’re seeking a medium-heavy switch that provides a bouncy feel and a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow might be the right choice for you. It's particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a more tactile feedback while typing and don’t mind a bit of noise, making it great for gaming or situations where a lively auditory experience enhances your enjoyment. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience or plan to use your keyboard in shared spaces or during extended typing sessions, the Light Sakura provides a comfortable and fatigue-reducing feel with its ultra-light actuation force and silent operation. This makes it particularly appealing for office work or scenarios where discretion is valued. Thus, your decision should align with whether you favor a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience or a whisper-quiet, gentle touch while typing.