Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its budget-friendly excellence. Typing on these switches produces a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy type feel. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue is also a linear switch, but it offers a deep and thocky sound profile, immersing you in a satisfying typing experience. With a lengthened single-stage spring, it provides a bouncy feel with each keystroke. The Tourmaline Blues strike a balance with their standard spring weight, making them enjoyable and accessible to a wide range of users. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and strengths. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Linear

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, creating a more clear and resonant sound. Both switches also benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making it ideal for RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetics, users can expect similar results from these two switches.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a nylon material, while the Tourmaline Blue features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Tourmaline Blue contributes to the switch's overall crisp and resonant sound profile.

It's worth noting that the impact of the bottom housing on the sound and feel of the switch's bottom-out is more noticeable. When pressing down on these switches, users will experience the qualities of the bottom housing. On the other hand, the top housing has more influence on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the top housings of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue are the same, the different bottom housing materials will result in distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel when typing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Tourmaline Blue has a slightly higher actuation force of 59 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel.

In terms of weight considerations, those who prefer lighter switches may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, as its lower actuation force allows for longer typing periods without as much fatigue. This lighter weight can also be beneficial for extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Tourmaline Blue, with its slightly heavier actuation force providing a stronger push feel and potentially enhancing the typing experience.

It is worth noting that both switches share the same bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that although the actuation forces differ, once the keys are fully pressed down, the typing experience will be similar in terms of the force required.

Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow can be considered the lighter option with its lower actuation force, while the Tourmaline Blue can be seen as the slightly heavier alternative. However, both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force, ensuring a comparable experience once the keys are fully pressed down.

Travel distance

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled. Both switches provide a consistent 4 mm travel distance, ensuring a similar tactile experience for the user. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Tourmaline Blue, you can expect comparable results in terms of the switch's travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a higher-pitched clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This creates an immersive auditory experience for users who prefer a more lively sound. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile. It has a more neutral sound, which is moderate in terms of actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Overall, both switches provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offering a higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the Tourmaline Blue offers a deep and thocky sound.

In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is described as polished and creamy. This means that it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. The Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, on the other hand, is buttery and easy-to-press. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. With its light actuation force, typing becomes comfortable and low-impact, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, these switches have a mild feel, which means they offer a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Overall, both switches provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offering a polished and creamy feel and the Tourmaline Blue offering a buttery and easy-to-press feel.

In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a polished, creamy feel, while the Tourmaline Blue has a deep thocky sound profile and a buttery, easy-to-press feel. These differences allow users to choose based on their personal preferences for sound and typing experience. However, it's important to note that individual factors such as keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the sound and feel of the switches. With their respective characteristics, both switches offer an enjoyable typing experience to users with different preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a higher pitched and resonant sound profile, as well as a fairly bouncy typing feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep and thocky sound profile that immerses you in a satisfying typing experience, along with a balanced and enjoyable bouncy feel, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch would be a perfect fit. Both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, offering a similar level of resistance. When it comes to sound, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow leans towards being high-pitched and resonant, while the Tourmaline Blue has a more neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a polished and creamy typing experience, while the Tourmaline Blue offers a buttery, easy-to-press, and mild feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a higher pitched clacky sound and a fairly bouncy type feel, or a deep and thocky sound with a balanced and enjoyable bouncy feel. Keep in mind your personal preferences and typing style when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Linear

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more