Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out from the rest are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Phoenix. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch that offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. It is best known for its polished and high-pitched sound profile, providing a clacky sound and a bouncy feel while typing. On the other hand, the Phoenix is a clicky switch that boasts a unique under-skirt click mechanism. It stands out with its crystalline and sparkling type feel, delivering a crunchy and polished sound profile. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Phoenix both feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer similar advantages. The use of polycarbonate in the housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. This is attributed to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing.
However, the difference lies in the bottom housings of these switches. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Phoenix features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, with its nylon bottom housing, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix complements the top housing by contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile overall.
When pressing down on either switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing become more evident. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed. On the contrary, the sound experienced when releasing a key is more influenced by the properties of the top housing. Therefore, the choices of the bottom and top housing materials contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of these switches.
In summary, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Phoenix benefit from polycarbonate top housings, resulting in a similar sound signature with sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp tones. However, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the clarity and resonance of the overall sound. Understanding the different impacts of the top and bottom housing materials gives users insights into the distinctive characteristics of each switch and allows for informed decisions based on personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is evident that there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, which means that a relatively light amount of force is required to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a moderate to heavy amount of force required to press the key all the way down. On the other hand, the specific actuation force of the Phoenix switch is unknown. However, it is revealed that it has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly lighter than the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. As a result, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a slightly lighter actuation force while maintaining a heavier bottom out force compared to the Phoenix switch. This means that individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Gateron switch, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. Meanwhile, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Outemu Phoenix switch, which offers a slightly heavier bottom out force. In terms of similarities, both switches provide a similar medium force when it comes to actuation and bottoming out, ensuring that users obtain comparable results in terms of key responsiveness and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the Phoenix's 3.3 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a more traditional travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Phoenix provides a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether one values a deeper key press or a more responsive 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 Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 linear switch offers a distinctly high-pitched and resonant profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, creating an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a crunchy sound that resembles stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The sound produced by both switches is influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you prefer a higher-pitched sound and a clean, sharp profile, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is an excellent choice. However, if you enjoy the satisfying crunchiness associated with clicky switches, the Phoenix will deliver a unique sound experience.
In terms of feel, both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Phoenix switches share the descriptor of being "polished." This means that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel provided by these switches enhance the overall feel. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is described as having a bouncy type feel, adding a slight bounce to each keystroke. Unfortunately, information regarding the specific feel of the Phoenix switch is not available. However, based on its polished descriptor, we can assume that it will provide a similarly smooth and refined typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, as well as its bouncy type feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix offers a unique crunchiness in sound and a polished feel. Both switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience due to their polished descriptors. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can be a great choice. Just be sure to consider other factors such as keyboard board and keycaps to optimize your overall experience.
Conclusion
In closing, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer distinct experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out as a budget-friendly option with its medium-heavy bottom out force and higher-pitched clacky sound profile. Typing on these switches provides a fairly bouncy type feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch showcases its unique under-skirt click mechanism, resulting in a sparkling and crystalline feel and sound profile. With a medium bottom out force, these switches offer a medium-pitched crunchy sound akin to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. In terms of feel, both switches feature a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also offers a creamy typing experience that feels like effortlessly gliding across the keys. Ultimately, whether you prefer the high-pitched clackiness of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the resonant, crunchy sensation of the Phoenix, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboards.
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