Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are distinct differences in their characteristics and performance. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is praised for its budget-friendly nature and polished, high-pitched sound profile, offering a bouncy typing feel. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver stands out with its all-POM construction, short travel distance, thocky sound, smooth operation, and feather-light touch. While both switches have their unique strengths, such as the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's creamy and resonant feel and the Smoothie Silver's lightning-fast actuation, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, we see that they both have distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate versus the softer nature of POM. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, similar to the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver.
Despite the differences in the top and bottom housing materials of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Smoothie Silver, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a clear and resonant sound, while the POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver delivers a more subdued and deeper sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a rounder sound, whereas the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver contributes to a deeper sound profile. Overall, both switches provide a range of sound options for users to choose from.
While the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Smoothie Silver may differ, the end result is a tailored sound experience based on personal preference. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and more muted sound of POM, both switches offer unique qualities that enhance the typing experience. Additionally, the nylon and POM bottom housings of each switch contribute to a fuller and deeper sound profile, allowing users to customize their typing experience based on their sound preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality materials that cater to different sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Smoothie Silver's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is also heavier at 67 grams, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a medium-heavy typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance, while the Smoothie Silver's actuation force is lighter, making it suitable for users looking for a lighter touch. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference in terms of typing dynamics and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Smoothie Silver. The 4.0mm travel distance in the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is more traditional, providing a deeper key press experience, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing or gaming feel. On the other hand, the 3.4mm travel distance in the Smoothie Silver offers a shallower key press, ideal for those who prioritize faster response times and quicker key actuation. Both switches have their own advantages, but for those looking for a deeper travel distance, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be the better choice, while the Smoothie Silver offers a more compact and responsive typing 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 Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 offers a high-pitched and resonant profile, giving off a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for its thocky sound, emphasizing smoothness and a feather-light touch. The high-pitched sound of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be preferable for those who enjoy a sharper auditory experience, while the thocky sound of the Smoothie Silver provides a different kind of satisfying typing feedback.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is characterized by its polished and creamy typing experience, with smooth and refined key travel that reduces friction for a sleek sensation. The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, meanwhile, offers lightning-fast actuation with a short travel distance, providing unparalleled smoothness in typing. While the specific feel of the Smoothie Silver is not fully described, its emphasis on speed and smoothness suggests a quick and effortless typing experience compared to the more refined feel of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow excels in providing a polished and creamy typing experience with a higher-pitched sound, while the Smoothie Silver stands out for its lightning-fast actuation and thocky typing feedback. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on whether you prioritize a smoother, faster typing experience (Smoothie Silver) or a more refined, audible typing sensation (G Pro 3.0 Yellow). Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance that will satisfy any user looking for a reliable linear switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a higher pitched clacky sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer an all-POM switch with a feather-light touch, lightning-fast actuation, and a thocky sound profile, then the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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