Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Gateron Luciola

Overview

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Luciola are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features for different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is an excellent choice for those on a budget, providing a polished and high-pitched sound profile with a bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Luciola switches are eye-catching with their glow-in-the-dark feature. They offer a smooth and snappy typing experience, accompanied by a unique "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. Both switches have their own qualities that appeal to different users. 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

Gateron Luciola Linear

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Luciola have different materials for their top housing. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes polycarbonate, while the Luciola has a proprietary INK blend top housing. Both materials contribute to creating a higher-pitched sound profile, but the polycarbonate in the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a sharper and crisper sound compared to the slightly less sharp sound profile of the INK blend in the Luciola. Additionally, the polycarbonate material in the G Pro 3.0 Yellow allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, making it visually appealing when combined with colorful lighting effects.

In terms of bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a nylon material while the Luciola has a proprietary INK blend bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded and duller sound. On the other hand, the INK blend material in the Luciola contributes to a thinner and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. While both materials enhance the sound produced, the nylon bottom housing in the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a slightly different tonal quality compared to the INK blend in the Luciola.

Overall, the choice of housing materials in these switches determines their sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow, with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, offers a sharper and crisper sound with a deeper and fuller tone. The Luciola, with its proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, provides a slightly less sharp sound profile with a thinner and clacky sound. Although they have differences in the materials used, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, whereas the Luciola requires slightly more at 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, providing a moderate amount of force for typing.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is heavier with a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Luciola is lighter with a bottom out force of 60 grams. This difference means that users of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow will experience a more substantial typing feel, as they need to push with greater force to fully press the key. On the other hand, the Luciola offers a slightly lighter typing experience, which some users may prefer for extended typing sessions or gaming.

Considering the weight of a switch is crucial for individual preferences. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Luciola, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. This lightweight characteristic makes it suitable for use in work environments or during extended gaming sessions. However, for individuals who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the ideal choice due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.

In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Luciola both provide a medium actuation force, they differ in terms of bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is heavier, requiring more force to fully press the key, while the Luciola is comparatively lighter. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Luciola linear switches, we can see that there is a slight difference between the two. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Luciola has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. With 4.0mm being more traditional and 3.6mm being slightly shallower, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a slightly longer travel distance than the Luciola. This can be advantageous for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, as the longer travel distance can provide a greater sense of depth while typing. On the other hand, gamers often seek shorter travel distances for faster response times. If you are someone who values quick responsiveness, the Luciola with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the typing experience sought after.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is best described as having a high-pitched and resonant sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and crisp sound, creating an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switch is known to have a clacky, chirpy, and marbly sound profile. The sound is sharp, snappy, and bright, with a unique acoustic signature. This switch resonates at a higher pitch, and tapping on it can be compared to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is often described as polished and creamy. These switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel make for a seamless and buttery typing sensation. As for the Gateron Luciola switch, it offers a snappy and buttery feel. The responsiveness of these switches is enhanced by longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive and dynamic. Similar to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, the Luciola switch also features a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Gateron Luciola switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, creating a sharp and immersive auditory experience. Its feel is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Luciola switch stands out with its clacky, chirpy, and marbly sound profile. The typing feel is snappy and buttery, providing a responsive and dynamic typing experience. While they have their unique qualities, it's important to note that individual preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard, including the board and keycaps, can significantly influence the subjective experience. Despite their differences, if you prefer a higher-pitched and smooth typing experience, both switches can deliver similar results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Luciola linear switches, there are a few factors to consider.

If you are on a budget and prioritize value for money, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is an excellent choice. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a satisfying typing experience. The sound profile of these switches is described as high-pitched and resonant, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Additionally, they offer a polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if aesthetics and unique features are important to you, the Luciola switches are worth considering. These switches have a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and provide a smooth and bouncy typing feel. They are known for their eye-catching glow in the dark feature, adding a visually appealing element to your keyboard setup. In terms of sound, the Luciola switches offer a range of options, including clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched profiles, providing a variety of auditory experiences. Similar to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, the Luciola switches also offer a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth keystrokes.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Luciola linear switches depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Consider your budget, desired sound profile, typing feel, and aesthetic preferences when making your decision. Whether you prioritize affordability or unique visual and acoustic features, both switches offer their own advantages.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Linear

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more