Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features for different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is widely known for its budget-friendly excellence and offers a linear switch experience. Typing on these switches produces a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is recommended for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. It provides a lower actuation and bottom-out force, resulting in a very approachable tactility when typing. Additionally, it features a deep and thocky sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing them with similar characteristics. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through and create visually appealing effects. Therefore, both switches offer a similar sound experience and aesthetic appeal when it comes to their top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes a nylon material, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring continues with polycarbonate. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Its relatively softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, with a polycarbonate bottom housing, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring retains the sharp and crisp sound profile associated with polycarbonate. Therefore, there is a noticeable difference in the sound produced when bottoming out the keys between these two switches.
Overall, while both switches have polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a similar sound and aesthetic experience, the difference lies in their bottom housings. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the overall sharper and crisper sound profile. So, depending on personal preferences, one might prefer the deeper sound of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the sharper sound of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, we can observe some key differences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams, compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's actuation force of 48 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, in terms of bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is heavier with 67 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires a lighter force of 55 grams.
The weight of the switch becomes an important factor for individuals seeking different typing experiences. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would be more suitable. Its lower actuation and bottom out force allow for a smoother and lighter keystroke, making it ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation and bottom out force. This heavier feel can be preferred by users who enjoy a stronger push and desire a more tactile response.
In summary, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch exhibit differences in actuation and bottom out forces, they cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a heavier typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a lighter and smoother keystroke. Both switches deliver their own unique benefits, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance as the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer similar results.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is best known for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and crisp sound, resulting in an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is unknown due to a lack of information. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. If you prefer a higher-pitched sound with clean and sharp characteristics, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a great choice.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is described as polished and creamy. With a smooth and refined finish, these switches offer a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The creamy sensation adds to the overall comfort, making it feel like you're gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. When pressed, these switches have a lively feel and offer rebound. This can be beneficial for those who prefer a tactile feedback while typing.
Based on the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches have distinct subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a smooth, polished, and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a medium level of tactility with a bouncy feel. While the sound profile and specific feel of the Aflion switch are unknown, it can still be a viable option for those looking for a tactile switch with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences for sound and typing experience.
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 choice. These switches offer a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with medium tactility and a lighter bottom out force, we highly recommend the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. These switches provide a deep and thocky sound profile and a very approachable tactility. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its polished and creamy feel, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a bouncy sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferred sound and typing experience.
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