Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The world of mechanical keyboard switches offers a plethora of options, each with its own unique qualities and characteristics. Two popular choices, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), stand out among enthusiasts for different reasons. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow, a linear switch, is best known for its budget-friendly excellence and its polished, high-pitched, and creamy feel when typing. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower), a tactile switch, is hailed for its maximum tactility, providing a satisfyingly sharp tactility and a clean clack. Both switches offer their own advantages, making it a tough decision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best choice for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches exhibit some key differences. Starting with the top housing, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate housing that emphasizes a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches incorporating RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. This unique sound quality adds a level of satisfaction for users looking for a different auditory experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow employs a nylon material that delivers a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) uses a POM bottom housing, which shares similarities with its top housing in terms of sound characteristics. The POM bottom housing contributes to the deeper sound profile, aligning with the overall sound aesthetic of the switch.
Although the two switches utilize different materials for their housing components, there are some similarities that can be derived. Both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the POM T1 (Sunflower) prioritize a pleasing and unique sound experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow focuses on a sharper and crisper profile with its polycarbonate top housing, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a deeper and more muted sound with both its POM top and bottom housings. These switches cater to different preferences in sound and provide distinct auditory feedback. Ultimately, users can expect satisfying results from either switch depending on their desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a known actuation force of 50 grams, requiring a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the POM T1 is unavailable, so it is unclear whether it is lighter or heavier in this aspect. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which means that once pressed fully, they provide a similar level of resistance.
The choice between a lighter or heavier actuation force depends on individual preferences and needs. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This can be especially beneficial for those who use their keyboard extensively for work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who value a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel may opt for a switch with a heavier actuation force.
Overall, while the actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known and considered lighter, the exact actuation force of the POM T1 is unknown. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a similar level of resistance once fully pressed. Depending on personal preferences, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance of travel. This provides a similar tactile experience and responsiveness for both switches, allowing for precise typing or gaming performance. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the POM T1 (Sunflower), you can expect a comfortable keypress with a uniform travel distance, making them suitable options for those seeking a consistent typing or gaming 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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 has a higher-pitched clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This switch offers an immersive auditory experience with its clean and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch also has a resonant sound profile, characterized by a higher-pitched and clean sound. Additionally, the POM T1 (Sunflower) possesses a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offers a polished experience, featuring a smooth and refined finish that results in sleek typing. This smoothness is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubrication, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is also described as creamy, offering a buttery and silky typing experience. Its switches are designed to glide effortlessly under your fingers, creating an enjoyable typing sensation. The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is characterized by a sharp and crisp tactile bump, providing a high feedback intensity. This switch offers an accented tactile experience, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The POM T1 (Sunflower) is further described as snappy, indicating its super responsive nature, and invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a reactive feel.
Considering the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch stands out for its high-pitched clacky sound profile and polished, creamy feel. It is a budget-friendly option that delivers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers a sharp tactility and clean clack, making it a suitable choice for those seeking maximum tactility. While these switches differ in terms of sound and feel, both provide immersive auditory experiences and are designed to enhance typing sensations. Therefore, whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), you can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is an excellent option. It offers a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy typing feel, which some may find enjoyable. On the other hand, if you prefer maximum tactility, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is the switch for you. It has a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack when typing. Both switches have a resonant sound profile, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow being described as high-pitched and resonant, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a resonant and neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The POM T1 (Sunflower) has a sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating feel, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for linearity and tactility, as well as the sound and feel you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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