Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry MX Red 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 Cherry MX Red mechanical keyboard switches, you are faced with a decision between two popular linear switches offering distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out for its budget-friendly excellence, delivering a higher pitched clacky sound profile and bouncy feel, making it perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is a classic choice known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry MX Red, it is clear that both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, with a deeper and fuller tone due to the absorbent nature of nylon. However, where they differ is in their top housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Yellow ideal for users who prefer a more resonant and clear typing sound. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red features a nylon top housing, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile that may appeal to those looking for a softer typing experience.
When it comes to aesthetics, the choice of housing material also plays a significant role. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing offers translucency, making it ideal for users who want to showcase RGB lighting effects. This adds a visual element to the typing experience that may be lacking in the Cherry MX Red, which features a solid nylon top housing. The clear polycarbonate housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow allows for light to pass through, enhancing the overall design of the keyboard and adding a touch of customization for users who appreciate visual flair in their setup.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry MX Red will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, typing feel, and aesthetics. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deep and full sound profile, the differences in their top housing materials result in distinct typing experiences. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the softer, rounder sound of the nylon top housing in the Cherry MX Red, each switch offers its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that they have differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is not specified. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Cherry MX Red would be the better choice, as it allows for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, catering to individuals with varying preferences in actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that regardless of which switch you choose, you will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and feedback. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Cherry MX Red, you can expect a consistent travel distance when typing or gaming.
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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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
Overall, when comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences in both sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, giving it a lively and sharp auditory experience. In terms of feel, it offers a polished and creamy typing sensation, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the MX Red is characterized by a thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deeper and more robust auditory feedback. The Cherry MX Red switch is described as textured, indicating a noticeable friction when pressed. While the sound and feel of these switches may appeal to different preferences, both options offer a satisfying typing experience that combines responsiveness with unique auditory and tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry MX Red will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry MX Red linear switches, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile with a polished, creamy typing feel, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and a thocky, low-pitched sound profile with a textured typing feel, then the MX Red may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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