Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out for its budget-friendly nature and polished, high-pitched sound profile, providing a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum boasts a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes due to its fully nylon construction, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a distinct typing feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a more tactile and resonant typing experience, the Cold Plum provides a satisfying sound and unique feel. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Cold Plum both use nylon for their bottom housing material, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This means that when typing on either of these switches, users can expect a more muted and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. While both switches share this nylon bottom housing material, they may differ in terms of key feel and sound feedback due to other components in their construction.
In terms of the top housing material, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, benefiting from the stiffness of the plastic. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum features a nylon top housing, which is known for absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in material choice highlights the different sound profiles that can be achieved depending on the housing material used in a switch. Despite this difference, both switches offer unique benefits in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Cold Plum plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience they offer. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing creates a more resonant and clear sound, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound. The shared use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent level of sound absorption and a more rounded typing experience. Ultimately, users looking for a specific sound profile or typing feel can choose between these switches based on the housing materials that best suit their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch are both in the medium-heavy range. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Cold Plum's 60 grams. However, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Cold Plum has a bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be easier to trigger a keystroke with, the Cold Plum offers a slightly more substantial typing experience when fully pressed. Overall, both switches provide a balance between a light actuation force for extended typing sessions and a heavier bottom out force for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Cold Plum has a shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. A 0.7 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may lean towards the Cold Plum due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper key press experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique feel and it comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
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 Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is known for its higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offers a thocky sound profile with a unique and satisfying typing sound due to its fully nylon construction. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow delivers a clacky sound, the Cold Plum provides a smoother and more immersive typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This sensation is akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys with each stroke. On the other hand, the feel of the Cold Plum switch is not specified in the provided information.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow excels in providing a higher-pitched and polished typing experience, the Cold Plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and nylon construction. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, you should consider the slightly lower bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow at 67 grams compared to the Cold Plum at 70 grams. If you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a thocky sound profile and smooth keystroke, the Cold Plum might be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing on these switches.
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