Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Outemu Lime (V3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Lime (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Lime are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features for different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is renowned for its budget-friendly excellence, providing a linear switch experience with a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Lime switches stand out for their lightweight nature, approachable tactility, and silenced operation. These switches appeal to tactile enthusiasts who desire a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. Both switches have their own unique qualities that make them suitable for different users. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Lime differ in terms of their housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Lime utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic. This allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it a great choice for those who prefer a higher-pitched typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Lime produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound, pleasing to those who enjoy a more mellow typing feel.
On the other hand, both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Lime have nylon bottom housings. This means that when pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will come into play. Both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the relatively softer nature of nylon. The nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Lime are likely to provide similar experiences, as they both utilize the classic nylon bottom housing material.
It's worth noting that the housing materials used in the top and bottom of a switch can have different impacts on the overall typing experience. When typing on the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, the sound and feel when letting go of a key will be influenced more by the polycarbonate top housing. Its stiffer plastic creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, providing a distinct sound when keys are released. On the other hand, the Lime's nylon top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when letting go of a key, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, while the bottom housing may offer similar qualities, the top housing can still provide distinct experiences between the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Lime.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Lime's 35 grams, making the Lime lighter in terms of triggering a keystroke. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Lime has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, appealing to those who prefer a heavier switch. On the contrary, the Lime switch offers a lighter and more effortless typing experience, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter switch. Therefore, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Lime switches differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with varying preferences for keystroke weight.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch is 3.3 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance than the Lime switch.
In terms of comparison, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow with its 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional feel, providing a deeper press when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Lime switch with its 3.3 mm travel distance is more shallow, offering a quicker response time, which is preferred by gamers for faster actions.
Both switches offer different experiences based on the travel distance preference. If you prioritize faster response times and a more sensitive feel, the Lime switch with its shorter travel distance would suit you better. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial press, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch's longer travel distance would be your ideal choice.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and specific needs. Whether you prioritize quick response times or a more substantial typing experience, you can find a suitable switch that fits your requirements.
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 Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch produces a high-pitched and resonant sound when pressed. The sound profile is clean, sharp, and clacky in nature. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a more neutral and muted sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular switch, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. While the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, these descriptions give a good indication of the sound qualities of the two switches.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is described as polished and creamy. It offers a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on these switches feels sleek and effortless, as they provide a silky sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience. It has a gentle resistance and requires little exertion from the fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Lime switch also has a subtle and polished feel, with a refined finish that enhances the overall typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile, along with a polished and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Lime switch has a more neutral and muted sound, with a mild and feathery feel. Both switches provide an approachable and enjoyable typing experience, albeit with different characteristics. If you prefer a higher-pitched and clacky sound with a smooth and refined typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be an excellent choice. If you prefer a more neutral and muted sound with a mild and feathery typing feel, the Outemu Lime switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Lime switches, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a higher pitched clacky sound profile with a fairly bouncy typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a light switch with a bottom out force of 45 grams, appreciate a feathery typing experience with just a touch of tactility, and desire a quieter sound profile, the Outemu Lime switch is the way to go. Ultimately, consider factors such as sound, feel, preference for linear or tactile switches, and any need for noise reduction to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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