Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Mars highlights the diversity available in linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is celebrated for its budget-friendly excellence, offering a higher-pitched, clacky sound profile accompanied by a bouncy typing feel that many users find enjoyable for both gaming and typing tasks. In contrast, the Gateron Mars presents a more innovative approach with its POK stem and a housing constructed from a blend of Nylon and POM, emphasizing durability and a unique tactile experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is an ideal choice for those seeking an affordable, lively typing experience, the Mars is perfect for users who prioritize innovation and material quality in their switch design. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Mars, a notable distinction is found in their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate’s stiffer construction contributes to its resonance, making it particularly effective for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Mars utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's softer material absorbs sound more effectively than polycarbonate, engendering a duller and rounder auditory experience. As a result, both switches offer unique acoustic properties that cater to different typing preferences, with the Yellow emphasizing clarity and brightness and the Mars offering richness and depth.
The bottom housings of the two switches further differentiate their sound profiles and tactile feedback. Both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Mars employ nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. However, the Mars transitions to a POM bottom housing, known for producing an exceptionally pleasing sound that leans towards a muted and softer auditory quality. This divergence in materials suggests that while the two switches share some characteristics due to their nylon bottom housing, the POM in the Mars injects an aspect of uniqueness that isn’t present in the Yellow. Thus, the blend of varying materials contributes distinctly to the sound and feel of each switch when pressed.
Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch presents a layered auditory experience contingent upon individual preference and typing style. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, offers a refreshing, bright clarity ideal for users who prioritize a lively acoustic feedback during typing. Conversely, the Mars switches—with their nylon and POM configuration—deliver a rounder, more subdued sound profile ideal for those who favor a rich, full-bodied auditory sensation. Therefore, while each switch has components that share materials, the contrasting qualities integrated into their respective housings will result in significantly different typing experiences, showcasing the importance of material choice in mechanical switch design.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, we see a distinction in their actuation forces, which influences the overall typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the lighter actuation force of 45 grams for the Mars switch. This makes the Mars switch easier to press, potentially allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue, which can be advantageous for users who prioritize comfort during extended use. However, the bottom out force for the Mars switch is unknown, making it difficult to assess how much resistance is felt when pressing the key all the way down. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a discernible bottom out force of 67 grams, contributing to a more substantial and tactile feel upon bottoming out. For those who appreciate a heavier switch with more feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the preferable option, while those who favor a lighter touch might lean towards the Mars.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the Gateron Mars linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Yellow the better choice for individuals who favor a more pronounced depth in key presses, as it provides a fuller tactile experience. On the other hand, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Mars switch caters to gamers and those who prioritize rapid response times, allowing for quicker activation and potentially faster gameplay. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a hearty depth, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is preferable, while the Mars switch will appeal to those who enjoy a more responsive feel with less travel distance.
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 Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 linear switch is known for its high-pitched, clacky sound profile, which delivers a sharp and crisp auditory experience. This resonant sound makes typing enjoyable for those who prefer a cleaner and more defined audio feedback. The brightness of the sound can also create an immersive typing experience that many users find engaging. Unfortunately, details about the sound profile of the Gateron Mars switch are not available, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, it can be assumed that the Mars leverages its unique design to produce its own distinct sound, but specifics remain unknown.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow boasts a polished and creamy typing experience, characterized by smooth key travel and reduced friction. This results in a sleek sensation that allows fingers to glide effortlessly across the keyboard. Users will appreciate the refined touch that comes from either quality materials or effective factory lubrication. In contrast, there are no descriptions available for the feel of the Mars switch, leaving a gap in the comparison. Without information on its tactile response or overall smoothness, it's hard to say how it might stand up against the G Pro 3.0 Yellow in this aspect.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch stands out with its high-pitched sound profile and its polished, creamy feel, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious users seeking a quality typing experience. The absence of specific information about the Gateron Mars switch means that while it may have its unique characteristics, we cannot directly compare certain aspects like sound and feel. For those looking to make a decision, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a well-rounded option, while the Mars remains an enticing yet undefined alternative in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Mars linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a medium-heavy feel with a bouncy and responsive typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow will likely be your best option. Its higher-pitched, resonant sound profile delivers a sharp auditory experience, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a cleaner, more refined sound while typing. Additionally, the polished and creamy feel enhances your overall experience, allowing for smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to innovative designs and are looking for unique switch characteristics, you might be intrigued by the Gateron Mars. Though details about its bottom-out force remain unavailable, its specialized POK stem and housing materials suggest promising smoothness and durability. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your tactile preferences and the type of typing experience you desire, ensuring that your chosen switch aligns with your specific needs and enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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