Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to a balance of sound profile and tactile feedback, and two notable options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, both of which are linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is celebrated for its budget-friendly price and a distinctively higher-pitched clack, which provides a lively and bouncy feel during typing. Its polished and resonant characteristics create an engaging typing experience, making it a popular choice for gamers and typists who thrive on feedback. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered for those who value a serene typing environment, offering an ultra-light 43g bottom-out force that allows for effortless key presses. This switch is perfect for light typists and anyone seeking a calming atmosphere, as it produces a whisper-quiet sound reminiscent of gentle raindrops. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, but each offers unique advantages depending on your needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g utilize distinct materials for their housing components, yielding contrasting acoustic profiles when typing. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This rigidity in the plastic allows for more resonant sound, especially when combined with its translucency, making the switch particularly appealing for RGB-backlit keyboards where the illumination can shine through the clear material. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g opts for a nylon top housing, providing a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The nylon's softer composition absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a more muted and rounded sound feedback while typing.
When examining the bottom housings, the roles of material qualities become even more pronounced. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow employs a nylon bottom housing, enhancing its output's richness and depth, aligning it with the characteristics of the Silent Sakura's top housing. Conversely, the Silent Sakura sports a polycarbonate bottom housing, injecting a sharper and higher-pitched sound into the typing experience. This difference means that while both switches utilize the advantages of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective configurations, the specific sound profiles they create differ significantly due to the unique characteristics assigned to the top and bottom housings.
In terms of overall typing experience, the variations in front-end (top housing) and back-end (bottom housing) materials influence not only the sound but also the feel of each switch. Users may find that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow achieves clarity in sound upon key release due to its polycarbonate top, while the nylon bottom provides a softer bottom-out feel. Conversely, the Silent Sakura delivers a more subdued release with its nylon top, while the polycarbonate bottom gives a sharper response when the key is pressed down. Ultimately, the materials chosen for each housing type facilitate specific acoustic and tactile results, but both switches permit an enjoyable typing experience, each providing unique auditory feedback and feel tailored to different user preferences.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch present a clear contrast in both actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which offers a more substantial feel that may be preferred by users who enjoy a stronger typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those looking for a switch that facilitates longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. This difference indicates that individuals who favor a lighter switch may benefit from reduced strain, while those who prefer the tactile feedback of a heavier switch might find the G Pro 3.0 Yellow more satisfying. Overall, the Silent Sakura - 43g is the lighter option, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the heavier choice between the two.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same amount of key travel, providing a consistent tactile feel. Because both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key actuation and responsiveness, regardless of the switch they choose.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 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 stands out with its distinctive higher-pitched clacky sound profile. This results in a sharp and crisp auditory experience that some typists may find invigorating. The resonance of these switches can create a lively and immersive atmosphere while typing, especially when paired with the right keycaps and keyboard. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch is specifically designed for a whisper-quiet typing experience, effectively muting the sound to a soft, gentle whisper reminiscent of rain. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a more pronounced acoustical feedback, the Silent Sakura emphasizes quietude, catering to those who prefer discretion in their typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is characterized by a polished and creamy sensation, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This is likely a result of either high-quality materials or factory lubrication, contributing to a silky feel as you glide from key to key effortlessly. Typists can expect minimal friction, allowing for a bouncy and enjoyable typing rhythm. However, details regarding the feel characteristics of the Silent Sakura - 43g switch are unspecified; it is important to note that its design prioritizes lightness and comfort, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch when typing.
Overall, the comparison between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g reveals two distinct approaches to keyboard switches. On one hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a lively auditory experience paired with a smooth and enjoyable tactile feedback, while the Silent Sakura - 43g promises a serene and subtle typing environment that’s ideal for quiet settings. Choosing between these two will depend largely on your preference for sound versus silence, and the tactile experience you seek while typing. Each switch offers unique qualities, ensuring a rewarding experience for different types of users.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g largely depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you enjoy a more tactile and responsive typing experience with pronounced audio feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is your go-to option. Its medium-heavy 67g actuation force provides a satisfying resistance that can enhance typing accuracy and speed for those who like a firm key feel. This switch is ideal for gamers and typists who appreciate a lively auditory experience, especially in environments that can handle a bit of noise. Conversely, if your priority is a serene, distraction-free atmosphere, the Silent Sakura - 43g is perfectly designed for you. With its ultra-light 43g actuation force, this switch offers a whisper-quiet typing experience, making it a fantastic choice for shared workspaces or late-night sessions. The ergonomic lightness is especially appealing for anyone who types for extended periods, as it reduces finger fatigue significantly. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preferences for sound, feel, and the specific context in which you’ll be using your keyboard.
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