Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry Nixie both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is praised for its budget-friendly excellence, providing a polished and high-pitched typing experience with a bouncy feel. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is celebrated for its classic status in the keyboard community, offering a substantial heft and textured typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may appeal to those seeking a more resonant and creamy feel, the Cherry Nixie could be preferred by those looking for a thocky and textured typing experience. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Cherry Nixie both feature nylon bottom housings, which means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Cherry Nixie features a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Cherry Nixie elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This difference results in a distinct sound and typing experience between the two switches.
The choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Cherry Nixie ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While both switches offer a deep and full sound profile with their nylon bottom housings, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing caters to those who prefer a sharper, crisper sound, whereas the Cherry Nixie's nylon top housing is more suitable for individuals who enjoy a deeper and rounder sound. Each switch provides a unique typing experience based on the combination of materials used in their housing construction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the Nixie is the heavier option. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has 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 Nixie boasts an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, which is on the heavy side. The lighter actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier Nixie switch may cater to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Nixie, you can expect consistent key travel distance for a smooth typing experience.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 and resonant qualities, resulting in a sharp and crisp sound profile that may not be as bass-heavy as other switches. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as thocky and low-pitched, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Choosing between the two will depend on your preference for sound profiles, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow providing a more high-pitched experience while the Nixie delivers a deeper tone.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is praised for its polished and creamy attributes, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Cherry Nixie switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed. If you prefer a smoother, buttery feel when typing, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the better choice for you, whereas if you enjoy a bit of texture for tactile feedback, the Nixie could be more to your liking.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Cherry Nixie linear switches have their own unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a higher-pitched sound and a polished, creamy typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a thocky, low-pitched sound and a textured typing feel, the Cherry Nixie could be the better option for you. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Cherry Nixie switches, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a high-pitched, resonant sound with a polished and creamy typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier bottom out force, a thocky, low-pitched sound, and a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie switch might be more to your liking. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what characteristics will enhance your typing experience the most.
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