Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Oil King are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that both offer a satisfying typing experience. In terms of sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out with its higher pitched clacky sound, while the Oil King provides a sound reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a fairly bouncy type feel, while the Oil King offers buttery smoothness. Both switches are categorized as creamy and polished, but the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is also resonant, and the Oil King has a low-pitched and bassy sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Oil King both have different housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This material is relatively stiffer, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Oil King utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, thus creating a duller and rounder sound. Both switches prioritize sound quality, but with different characteristics.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Oil King employ different materials, again impacting the sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow uses a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound. As nylon absorbs more sound, it creates a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Oil King features Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. It introduces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, offering a unique auditory experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow.
Although the top and bottom housings of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Oil King are different, they each contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. Pressing down on these switches will primarily emphasize the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the materials used in the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when the key is released. Despite the differences, both switches prioritize the production of high-quality sound, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires 50 grams, while the Oil King requires slightly more at 55 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is lighter in terms of actuation force. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow measuring at slightly higher 67 grams compared to the Oil King's 65 grams. Despite these differences, both switches fall within the medium-heavy range for bottom out force.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be a suitable choice due to its lower actuation force. This lighter actuation force can allow for longer typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue. On the other hand, the Oil King offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. This may be preferred by individuals who desire a bit more resistance and feedback while typing.
Overall, while there are some differences in actuation force between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Oil King, both switches provide a medium-heavy bottom out force. Therefore, regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect similar results in terms of the impact or resistance felt when fully pressing down the keys.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Both switches provide a satisfying amount of feedback and responsiveness to your keystrokes. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Oil King, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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 is described as having a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a sharp and crisp sound, which can create a more immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King is described as having a low-pitched and bassy sound. This means that the sound produced by these switches is deeper and richer, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Oil King are described as having a creamy and silky typing experience. This means that both switches offer a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. This is likely due to the presence of lubricant applied in the factory or specific materials used in the switches. When using these switches, you can expect a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The keys will effortlessly glide under your fingers, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Oil King have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow produces a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, while the Oil King offers a low-pitched and bassy sound. However, both switches provide a creamy and silky typing experience, with smooth and buttery key presses. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, either of these switches can offer similar results in terms of feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your preference for sound profiles and the overall aesthetic you are aiming for in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is a great choice. It offers a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, which can be appealing if you prefer a sharp and crisp sound when typing. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a polished and creamy typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and enjoy a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is worth considering. It offers a buttery and silky typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
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