Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Mini i mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch, known for its budget-friendly excellence and high-pitched clacky sound profile, providing a bouncy and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Mini i is a tactile switch, offering gentle tactility with a muted sound profile, making it ideal for office settings where quiet professionalism is key. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is great for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feel, the Mini i is perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch and subtle feedback. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Mini i, it is evident that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. This commonality means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. However, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing material leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making the G Pro 3.0 Yellow ideal for those who prefer a brighter typing experience.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Gateron Mini i diverge when it comes to their top housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing offers a unique sound experience with its sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a more resonant typing sound. On the other hand, the Mini i's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more subdued typing experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. This contrast in top housing materials allows for users to choose between a brighter and clearer sound or a deeper and rounder sound based on their preferences.
It is interesting to note that the top housing material of a switch plays a significant role in the sound profile when pressing and releasing keys, while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. With the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow having a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the user can expect a combination of a sharp and crisp sound profile upon key release and a deeper sound upon bottoming out. In comparison, the Gateron Mini i with nylon top and bottom housing will provide a more consistent and subdued sound both during key press and release, catering to those who prefer a fuller and rounder sound experience throughout their typing session.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In comparison, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the Mini i offers a lighter touch, ideal for those looking to type for extended periods without much strain. Both switches provide different experiences based on personal preference, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel and the Mini i appealing to those who enjoy a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Gateron Mini i has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. The difference may seem minor, but it can impact the typing experience significantly. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper press, while the Gateron Mini i's shorter travel distance is ideal for those seeking quicker response times, especially in gaming scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of the desired keypress feel and speed.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch provides a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, resulting in a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile with moderate actuation force requirements, making it versatile for various typing environments. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound of the switches.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offers a polished and creamy typing experience, characterized by smooth key travel and reduced friction. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, with gentle resistance and light actuation force for comfortable typing sessions. The Mini i switch also features a mild and subtle tactile feedback, making it suitable for shared spaces and extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its high-pitched sound profile and creamy typing experience, while the Mini i provides a neutral sound and gentle tactile feedback. Selecting between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing environment. Whether opting for the sharp resonance of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the subtle tactility of the Mini i, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience for newcomers seeking different qualities in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it all boils down to personal preference and intended usage. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with a polished or creamy feel for a more bouncy typing experience, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a neutral sound profile, along with a bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, or stepped feel for a comfortable and responsive typing experience, then the Gateron Mini i would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, consider your typing preferences, environment, and the type of typing experience you desire when making your decision between these two switches.
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