Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Red Panda. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for being budget-friendly, offering excellent performance at an affordable price. With a polished and high-pitched sound profile, as well as a bouncy typing experience, it provides a creamy and resonant feel. On the other hand, the Red Panda showcases a light-medium amount of tactility, paired with a raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Its thocky and mild characteristics make typing on it a unique and satisfying experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
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 Red Panda both share similar housing materials, with polycarbonate used in both the top housing of their switches. This allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, providing an aesthetically pleasing experience. Additionally, the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound profile in both switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and visual appeal when using either switch.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Red Panda feature nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon's relatively softer nature allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This gives both switches a unique tactile feel and a satisfying sound when bottoming out. While the materials used may be the same, it's important to note that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Outemu Red Panda share similar characteristics due to their use of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing. Users can expect a sharp, high-pitched, and crisper sound profile from both switches, thanks to the properties of polycarbonate. Additionally, they will enjoy a deeper and fuller sound experience due to the nylon bottom housing's ability to absorb more sound. While the top and bottom housings may have different impacts on certain aspects of the typing experience, the overall result and satisfaction remain similar.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we see both similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams, ensuring a consistent and responsive keystroke. This means that upon applying a force of 50 grams, the key will register and a keystroke will be activated.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, we start to see variations. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the Red Panda, which has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, more pressure is needed to fully depress the key, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda requires slightly less force for a full press, which may be preferred by those who value a lighter feel for longer typing sessions.
Taking into consideration the weight preferences of individuals, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be suitable for those seeking a heavier actuation and bottom out force, resulting in a more tactile and robust typing experience. Meanwhile, the Red Panda would be a better choice for those looking for a slightly lighter touch, allowing them to type comfortably for extended periods of time.
In conclusion, although these switches share the same actuation force, their bottom out forces differ slightly, providing options for users with varying preferences. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier touch, both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Red Panda can deliver satisfying results, catering to individual needs and ensuring an enjoyable typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda. 4.0 mm is considered a more traditional travel distance, while 3.3 mm is on the shorter end of the spectrum. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, as it allows them to actuate the keys more quickly. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Red Panda with its shorter travel distance may be the better option. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt or lacking in depth. If you prefer a more substantial keystroke, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's longer travel distance may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing/gaming style.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics. Pressing these switches produces a sharp and crisp sound, which can be favored by those who prefer a more distinct and clean sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch is described as thocky, creating a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. This switch offers a different auditory experience, with a more bassy and raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is often described as polished and creamy. The switch's smooth and refined finish provides a sleek and friction-free typing experience, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This smoothness can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubrication. Typing on a G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch gives a sensation of gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each keystroke feeling silky and buttery. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone, providing a comfortable feel that can be suitable for most users.
Considering the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch excels in providing a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a smooth, polished feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a more tactile experience with a thocky sound and a mild feel. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are interested in a more distinct and resonant sound with a polished and creamy feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow can be a great choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a deeper, rich sound and a gentle feel, the Red Panda can provide a satisfying tactile experience. It's important to keep in mind that personal preferences, typing style, and the overall keyboard setup can also influence the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are on a budget but still want excellent linear switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a fantastic choice. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and offer a higher pitched clacky sound profile, along with a fairly bouncy type feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile experience, the Outemu Red Panda switches are a great option. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, they provide a light-medium amount of tactility and produce a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is high-pitched and resonant, while the Red Panda is thocky. As for feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is polished and creamy, giving a smooth and refined typing experience, whereas the Red Panda offers a mild and gentle typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and budget.
Mentioned in this article
