Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch with the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is praised for its budget-friendly excellence and delivers a polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant typing experience. The bouncy feel and clacky sound profile make it appealing to those who enjoy linear switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom lacks a defining characteristic but offers a tactile typing response. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing style. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Tom both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, both switches also have nylon bottom housings, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics.
Despite both switches having similar housing materials, the distinct qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom housing of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's characteristics will be more notable in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. This division allows for a balanced experience when using the switches, ensuring a unique tactile and auditory feedback depending on the movement of the keys.
In terms of design and aesthetics, the polycarbonate housing of both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Tom offers a visually appealing feature with its translucency, especially when paired with RGB lighting. This makes the switches not only functional but also visually striking. Additionally, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a more rounded and duller sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Tom may be similar, the way in which they affect the sound and feel of the switches can lead to subtle differences in typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Tom switch is unknown. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates the amount of force needed to press the key all the way down. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Tom switch has the shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. The difference may seem minor, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience for users. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, whereas the Tom's 3.3 mm distance offers a shallower keystroke. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Tom switch, while others who enjoy a deeper keystroke may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. Both switches offer unique advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing which travel distance suits your typing style best.
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 Tom 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
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is praised for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and clean auditory experience. When typing on these switches, users may enjoy the bouncy and slightly clacky feel, attributed to their polished and creamy characteristics that offer a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is currently unavailable. However, it is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the ideal switch for each user. If sound and feel are crucial factors in your decision-making process, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be a suitable choice for a budget-friendly yet excellent linear switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a budget-friendly option with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, and a polished and creamy feel, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with an unknown bottom out force and unique characteristics that are not yet described in the information provided, the Tom switch might be worth exploring. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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