Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out for its budget-friendly linear design, providing a polished and high-pitched typing experience with a bouncy feel. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion offers a tactile switch with a pronounced bump and a medium weight feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a creamy and resonant typing experience, the Thunder Shadow provides an invigorating tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile. Deciding between these switches may depend on whether you prefer a smoother linear feel or a tactile bump while typing. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In terms of similarities, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Aflion Thunder Shadow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard.
In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key.
Overall, while both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow with its nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience with a deeper sound profile, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing may provide a crisper sound. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the sound profile and typing feel can help keyboard enthusiasts make an informed decision based on their preferences.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow at 67 grams and the Thunder Shadow at 63.5 grams, both falling into the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, for users who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the Thunder Shadow may be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Thunder Shadow. The difference may not be significant for some users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow offers a slightly shallower travel distance which may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time. Ultimately, both switches provide a balance between depth and speed, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
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 Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer distinct qualities in sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, creating a sharp and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow offers a neutral sound signature, accompanying its pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is described as polished and creamy, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience, while the Thunder Shadow is characterized as invigorating, providing pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. If you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile with a bouncy feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a solid choice. However, if you appreciate a neutral sound signature with a tactile and balanced typing experience, the Aflion Thunder Shadow may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that typing enthusiasts have options to customize their keyboard experience according to their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a higher pitched sound profile and a bouncy type feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a pronounced tactile bump, moderate weight feel, and a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and budget constraints. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a keyboard switch.
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