Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry MX Speed Silver offer distinct qualities to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is budget-friendly and known for its high-pitched clacky sound profile and bouncy typing feel, making it a popular choice for those looking for a polished and resonant switch. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver stands out for its rapid response and low spring resistance, ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and instant triggers. Both switches have their strengths and cater to different preferences and usage scenarios. 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
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, we can see that they both feature nylon in their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition which absorbs more sound. This similarity suggests that both switches may offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's top housing is made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's top housing is especially beneficial for enabling RGB lighting due to its translucency.
While both switches share nylon in their bottom housings, their top housings differ significantly. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing is stiffer and leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, while the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in housing materials highlights how the choice of material can greatly impact the overall sound produced by a switch. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing may appeal to those who prefer a sharper sound, while the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing may be favored by those who enjoy a deeper sound profile.
In considering the overall typing experience of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, it is important to note how the qualities of the housing materials are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing of both switches, made of nylon, will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, crafted from polycarbonate, will have a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. This distinction showcases how the combination of different housing materials can affect the overall typing experience and sound profile of a switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch differ significantly. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the MX Speed Silver's lighter 30 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires 67 grams of force, while the MX Speed Silver's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the MX Speed Silver, as its actuation force is lighter. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow due to its heavier actuation force and bottom out force. In terms of weight preference, those who want a keyboard for extended typing or gaming sessions may be more inclined towards the MX Speed Silver, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may choose the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, we can see that the G Pro has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the MX Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the G Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the MX Speed Silver. In terms of key responsiveness, gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the MX Speed Silver for faster response times. However, those who prefer a more solid and deeper press may lean towards the G Pro with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits, as both options offer unique advantages based on their travel distances.
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 Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, producing sharp and crisp noises when pressed, making for an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, characterized by a deep and rich tone, offering a satisfying auditory feedback. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow leaning towards a higher pitch and the MX Speed Silver towards a deeper tone. The sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is described as polished and creamy, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This results in a sleek typing experience where fingers effortlessly glide across the keys. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is noted for its textured feel, offering noticeable friction when pressed, which may be preferred by some users seeking a different tactile sensation during typing. The creamy feel of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch and the textured feel of the MX Speed Silver cater to users looking for distinct tactile experiences, with the former offering a buttery sensation and the latter providing a more friction-based typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard users. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow excels in providing a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy feel, the MX Speed Silver stands out for its thocky low-pitched sound profile and textured feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and responsiveness that can meet the needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, providing similar results in terms of performance, precision, and durability.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a higher-pitched clacky sound profile, and a fairly bouncy typing feel, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek maximum speed and rapid response in your keystrokes, with a full-height design for optimal gaming performance, the MX Speed Silver with its instantaneous triggering and low spring resistance may be more suitable for your requirements. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to determine which aligns best with your typing style and habits. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences and specific usage scenarios.
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