Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a multitude of options available, each with its own unique characteristics. Two switches that stand out in the mechanical keyboard community are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the SP-Star Duck. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch, known for its budget-friendly excellence and high-pitched clacky sound profile. Typing on these switches offers a bouncy and resonant feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck is a tactile switch, offering a more subtle and gentle tactile typing experience. The sound profile is clean and crispy, providing a satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the SP-Star Duck both feature polycarbonate top housings, which have similar effects on the sound profile of the switches. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This results in a more clear and resonant sound profile when typing on either switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through and create vibrant effects. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences from both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the SP-Star Duck due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow differs from the Duck when it comes to the bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that when pressing down on the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, users will experience a unique bottom-out sound and feel that is influenced by the properties of the nylon bottom housing. In contrast, the Duck features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which shares the same characteristics as the polycarbonate top housing. This means that the sound and feel of the Duck will be more consistent throughout the keystroke, with the top housing having a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the SP-Star Duck offer similar sound profiles and aesthetics due to their shared polycarbonate top housing. However, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound while the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains consistency throughout the keystroke. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, they can choose between the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's unique bottom-out experience or the Duck's balanced sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are some key differences to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Duck switch is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium. While the actuation force for the Duck switch is unknown, we can assume that it would likely be similar to or lighter than the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, given its medium bottom out force.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing switches, as it can impact typing comfort and the overall typing experience. Some individuals prefer lighter switches, like the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This makes it ideal for those who use their keyboard extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For such users, the Duck switch, with its slightly heavier bottom out force, may be a better choice.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the heavier switch with a known actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. The SP-Star Duck switch has an unknown actuation force but a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, suggesting a lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and desired force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is 4 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches provide the same amount of travel distance, meaning that users will experience a similar feel when pressing down on a key with either switch. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its high-pitched clacky sound profile when typing on them. This means that the switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which may appeal to those who prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switches offer a clean and crispy sound profile. These switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, which means they have a moderate actuation force requirement and are suitable for most purposes.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are described as polished and creamy. This means that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The creamy sensation allows for effortless keystrokes, as if gliding your fingers across the keys. As for the Duck switches, they are described as mild, buttery, and polished. This implies that they offer a gentle typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke feel. The switches provide a seamless and uniform typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switches have a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and offer a polished and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switches provide a clean and crispy sound profile and a mild, buttery, and polished typing feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities, so it ultimately depends on personal preference. If you enjoy a higher-pitched sound and a smooth and refined typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches would be a great choice. If you prefer a more subtle tactile sound and a gentle typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switches would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and SP-Star Duck switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
If you prioritize a budget-friendly option that offers a bouncy type feel and higher-pitched clacky sound, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the way to go. This switch has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, its polished and creamy characteristics result in reduced friction and smooth key travel, allowing for a sleek and effortless typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switches are a perfect choice. With a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, these switches offer a gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. The Duck switches also exhibit mild, buttery, and polished characteristics, providing a safe and approachable typing experience for most users.
Consider your typing preferences and the qualities described above when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and SP-Star Duck switches will depend on whether you prioritize a budget-friendly, bouncy type feel with a high-pitched sound profile, or a more subtle tactile typing experience with clean and crispy sound.
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