Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear are two mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch that offers a budget-friendly option without compromising performance. Typing on these switches provides a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy type feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is an innovative switch that combines a whisper-quiet topping-out sound with a clacky bottom-out sound. Its type feel is silky smooth, striking the perfect balance between being polished and not over-polished. While these general descriptions give us a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear share some similarities in their housing materials. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate material for their top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it an excellent choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This means that users can expect a similar sound and lighting experience with both switches, creating a vibrant and clear typing or gaming experience.
Where these switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a nylon bottom housing, while the Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a nylon bottom housing as well. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its relatively softer nature. It absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Therefore, while the top housings may provide a similar sound and lighting experience, the bottom housing on each switch will produce different sound characteristics, potentially influencing the overall typing or gaming experience.
It's important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material are split between the bottom and top of the switch. Pressing down on the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Semi-Silent Linear will make you feel the impact of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This means that while the housing materials may differ in terms of sound and feel, the overall user experience of typing or gaming on these switches will be affected by a combination of both materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Semi-Silent Linear's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams or higher. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of bottoming out force.
In terms of weight, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is considered medium-heavy, with a bottom out force of 67 grams. This heavier weight may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the weight of the Semi-Silent Linear is unknown. Therefore, it is difficult to directly compare the weight of these two switches.
In summary, while there is limited information available regarding the actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear switch, both switches provide a similar experience in terms of bottoming out force. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a heavier weight, which may be preferable for individuals seeking a more pronounced keypress.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch have different travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow with its 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional typing experience, providing a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear with its shallower 3.7 mm travel distance is preferred by gamers who value faster response times. While the difference in travel distance may seem minimal, it can significantly impact the feel and responsiveness of the switches when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - those seeking a more subtle and responsive feel may opt for the Semi-Silent Linear, while those who prefer a deeper and more pronounced key press may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, offering an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is described as subdued and neutral in sound. It creates a dampened sound when pressed, which is not completely silent but more subtle when compared to most switches. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow delivers a higher-pitched clacky sound profile, while the Semi-Silent Linear provides a whisper-quiet topping-out sound mixed with a clacky bottom-out sound.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is often described as polished and creamy. This indicates a switch with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel make for a buttery sensation, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offers a mild and snappy feel. This switch provides a more gentle typing experience with its mild characteristics, making it approachable for most users. The longer or dual-staged springs contribute to its snappy and responsive nature. Overall, both switches offer smooth and polished typing experiences, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow leaning towards a creamy feel and the Semi-Silent Linear providing a mild and snappy sensation.
Taking into consideration the available information, it is clear that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches have distinct subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow excels in its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, combined with a polished and creamy feel. This switch is budget-friendly and delivers a bouncy type feel. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its semi-silent topping-out sound and clacky bottom-out sound, creating a subdued and neutral sound profile. The switch offers a silky smooth feel, with a mild and snappy typing experience. Both switches have their own merits and are suitable for different preferences. If the user is looking for a higher-pitched and clacky sound with a smooth and refined typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is an excellent choice. However, if a more subtle, semi-silent sound and a silky smooth feel with a gentle and snappy typing experience is preferred, the Semi-Silent Linear is the way to go.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is the way to go. These switches provide a fairly bouncy typing feel and offer a polished, creamy typing experience, thanks to their smooth finish and potentially factory applied lubricant. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a more subdued, neutral sound profile, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is a great choice. These switches have a silky smooth type feel and offer a mild, snappy, and buttery typing experience. They strike a safe middle ground, making them approachable for most users. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and budget.
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