Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options in the linear category are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Bsun Tomcat switches, each appealing to different types of users. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out for its budget-friendly pricing while delivering a satisfying typing experience characterized by a higher-pitched clacky sound and a bouncy feel that many users find enjoyable. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a lively auditory feedback without breaking the bank. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switches are celebrated for their Ly stems, which provide a super smooth typing experience. Users can expect a resonant sound profile alongside effortless keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a quiet yet responsive setup. While both switches have their unique attributes, one focusing on affordability and acoustic feedback and the other on smoothness and tactile comfort, it is essential to delve deeper into their specifics to help you determine which switch best suits your typing style.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Bsun Tomcat both feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, which results in similar sound profiles characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, allowing it to produce a clear and resonant sound, regardless of the specific switch model. This commonality is notable, as it indicates that users of both switches can enjoy an aesthetically pleasing translucency, especially under RGB lighting conditions. The clear top housing allows for light to pass through effectively, enhancing the visual appeal of a keyboard setup.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches share the same material: nylon. Nylon is lauded for its softer, more absorbent nature, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a classic material for switch housings, nylon significantly impacts the auditory experience by absorbing sound waves, thus creating a duller and rounder sound. In both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Bsun Tomcat, the use of nylon allows the keys to have a distinctively richer bottom-out sound, further contrasting with the sharpness of the polycarbonate top.

In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Bsun Tomcat utilize polycarbonate for their top housings and nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a harmonized sound profile, the individual characteristics of these materials distinctly contribute to the switches' overall performance. The synergy between the polycarbonate's crisp sharpness on release and the nylon's full-bodied bottom-out effect creates a complete auditory experience, regardless of the specific model in use. Therefore, users are likely to find a comparable typing experience founded on the shared material properties, leading to similar acoustic results when using either switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences emerge. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, classified as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorized as medium-light. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the Tomcat switch is ideal for users who prioritize ease of use and comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions due to its lighter feel. Ultimately, the choice will depend on individual preference for weight and tactile feedback when typing or gaming.

Travel distance

When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch to the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the travel distances reveal a notable difference. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option that offers a deeper feel when pressing down on the key. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to those who favor quicker response times, particularly in gaming scenarios. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be better suited for users who appreciate a more substantial keypress, whereas the Tomcat is ideal for those who prefer a snappier action. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for depth versus responsiveness in key travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is characterized by a high-pitched, clacky tone, which delivers a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke. This sound can be quite satisfying for those who prefer a more incisive note without the deep, resonant qualities found in many other switch types. In comparison, the Bsun Tomcat switch also produces a resonant sound profile. While the details on the exact auditory characteristics of the Tomcat are not explicit, it suggests that the sound is clean and sharp, aligning somewhat with the auditory experience offered by the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, although the term 'resonant' could imply a slightly richer sound.

When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch provides a polished and creamy typing experience. The smooth finish and potential factory lubing contribute to a particularly effortless keystroke, allowing for reduced friction and seamless typing. This creates an almost gliding sensation, which can be very appealing for extended typing sessions. The Tomcat linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its Ly stems that promise a super smooth typing experience, but further details on the specific tactile sensations it provides remain unknown. Thus, while both switches aim for a buttery smooth feel, the exact characteristics of the Tomcat switch haven't been fully elaborated.

In summary, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Bsun Tomcat linear switches cater to users who enjoy a smooth and satisfying typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out with its distinct high-pitched sound and creamy feel, making it a great choice for budget-conscious typists who appreciate auditory feedback. The Tomcat's resonant sound and promising smoothness suggest it could provide a similarly enjoyable experience, though the absence of detailed tactile feedback leaves some questions. Ultimately, users choosing between these switches can expect complementary qualities, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow perhaps offering a more defined auditory experience while the Tomcat hints at a sleek smoothness.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch should primarily hinge on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and force requirements. If you appreciate a bouncy typing feel coupled with a medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams and enjoy a higher-pitched, clacky sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is likely the right fit for you. This switch is ideal if you're on the lookout for a budget-friendly option that excels in a tactile response and provides a pleasing auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more forgiving, medium-light actuation force of 54 grams and a super smooth typing experience, the Tomcat is a strong contender. Its resonant sound profile delivers a clean and immersive auditory experience that is perfect for those who value a silky sensation under their fingers while typing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique strengths, so consider your typing habits and preferences to make a decision that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Linear

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more