Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Cherry MX Orange

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Cherry MX Orange are two popular linear options that cater to different preferences and budgets. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is celebrated for its affordability, offering a higher-pitched clacky sound profile coupled with a bouncy typing feel that many enthusiasts love. It brings a touch of fun and responsiveness to the typing experience, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists on a budget. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches, with their legacy behind them, are known for their refined design and enhanced performance thanks to the MX2A generation improvements. Although the exact auditory profile of the MX Orange isn't precisely defined in the shared information, Cherry switches are widely acclaimed for their reliability and overall smooth operation. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may appeal to those looking for a cost-effective yet enjoyable typing experience, the Cherry MX Orange likely draws in users searching for a trusted brand with a history of quality. 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

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry MX Orange, it becomes evident that they have different characteristics that affect their performance. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This is largely due to the fact that polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, allowing for a clearer and more resonant sound when the key is released. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange is equipped with a nylon top housing. This softer material tends to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that gives a more muted auditory feedback upon release. Thus, while the materials used in the top housings differ significantly, they each contribute unique sound profiles to the overall typing experience.

Moving to the bottom housings, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Cherry MX Orange both utilize nylon materials. This shared characteristic has implications for the switches' acoustic performance. The nylon bottom housing in both switches facilitates a deeper and rounder sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a consistency of experience at bottom-out, as both switches will feel and sound similar in this regard. While their top housings provide distinct sound signatures, the similarities in bottom housing material ensure that both switches produce a similar auditory feedback when keys are pressed completely down.

Ultimately, the combination of the unique top housing materials and the identical bottom housing of nylon creates a nuanced typing experience for each switch. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow benefits from the clarity and brightness of polycarbonate at the top, while the Cherry MX Orange offers a more subdued and deeper sound, thanks to its nylon top. However, during bottom-out, the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing unify their outputs, producing relatively comparable results in terms of feel and sound profile. Thus, depending on the user's preference for auditory feedback, the choice between these switches might hinge on their perception of sound quality from the differing top housings, while the bottom-out performance remains consistent across both options.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch to the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, which is on the lighter side, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the MX Orange requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. The bottom out force for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is 67 grams, indicating that it has a decent amount of resistance when pressed all the way down. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is unavailable, which means we cannot make a direct comparison there. Overall, if you prefer a lighter switch, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the better choice, while the Cherry MX Orange is heavier and will likely provide a firmer typing experience for those who enjoy that feel.

Travel distance

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that when pressed, they have identical downward travel from the top to the bottom of the switch. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users can expect the same feel and actuation depth when using keys equipped with either switch, leading to a consistent typing experience. Consequently, if you prefer the characteristics of one switch over the other, you'd still achieve comparable keypress distances regardless of your choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches produce a distinctly high-pitched and clacky noise, providing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback upon each keystroke. This resonant sound profile enhances the typing experience, creating an immersive and engaging atmosphere that many users appreciate. On the other hand, while the Cherry MX Orange switches carry a legacy appeal due to their reissue, their current sound characteristics aren't detailed in the available information. Therefore, if sound profile preferences lean towards that clean and sharp tone, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow clearly stands out, but insights into the MX Orange’s sound remain unknown.

In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are celebrated for their polished and creamy typing experience. The smooth and refined finishes contribute to reduced friction and effortless key travel, allowing users to glide through their typing tasks with remarkable ease. This buttery sensation is often attributed to factory lubrication and the materials used, enhancing the overall comfort during prolonged use. The Cherry MX Orange switches, however, do not have specific descriptors regarding their feel, leaving a gap in comparison. If the feel is important for a user, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers clear advantages in terms of smoothness and comfort.

In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches shine brightly in both sound and feel, offering a high-pitched auditory experience along with a polished and creamy typing sensation that many users will find appealing. With the Cherry MX Orange switches, while they evoke a sense of nostalgia and quality associated with the original MX Orange, their sound and feel remain less defined in comparison. For someone looking to make an informed choice, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides evident advantages, particularly for users who prioritize auditory feedback and a smooth tactile experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange switch, consider your typing preferences and intended use. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that delivers a smooth typing experience characterized by a medium-heavy force of 67 grams, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a fantastic choice. Its high-pitched, clacky sound profile and polished, creamy feel make it particularly suited for fast typing and gaming, where a bouncy and responsive feedback can enhance performance. On the other hand, if you're seeking a more traditional and well-established switch with a reputation for reliability, the Cherry MX Orange, despite its unavailable specifications, serves those who prefer a balanced typing experience. While the MX Orange design focuses on durability and consistency, it may not offer the same tactile nuances as the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a budget-friendly switch with vibrant sound and feel, or if you lean towards the mechanical legacy of the Cherry brand for your typing endeavors.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Linear

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more