Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Gateron Type A are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out for its budget-friendly excellence, providing a high-pitched, clacky sound profile and bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" offers factory lubing techniques and a deeper sound signature, making it a great choice for those seeking a medium-weight switch. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may appeal to those looking for a more polished and resonant typing experience, the Type A caters to users who prefer a more subdued and neutral sound. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Type A, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, the Type A features a nylon top housing for a similar deeper and fuller sound experience.
Despite the differences in top housing materials between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Type A, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow contributes to a clear and resonant sound, particularly beneficial for RGB lighting setups due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Type A produces a deeper and fuller sound that is characterized by a rounder tone. This distinction in sound quality showcases how even small variations in housing materials can impact the overall typing experience.
When considering the overall impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note how the bottom and top housings each play a role in the sound and feel of typing on a switch. The qualities of the bottom housing material will be more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. Whether utilizing polycarbonate or nylon, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Type A offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, showcasing the importance of housing materials in switch design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that they both have an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a consistent typing experience when initially pressing the keys. However, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Type A has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch offers a more substantial typing feel, requiring a firmer press to fully bottom out the key, compared to the lighter feel of the Gateron Type A switch. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference, with some users preferring the lighter actuation and bottom out forces for extended typing sessions, while others may favor the heavier forces for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom will be the same. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance when using either of these switches. In conclusion, the travel distance of both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Type A linear switches are equal, providing a consistent typing experience for users.
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 Type A comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 is known for its higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Depending on your personal preference, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be more suitable for those who enjoy a sharper sound, while the Type A may appeal to those who prefer a more moderate and gentle sound.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is praised for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering smooth and refined key presses with reduced friction and effortless key travel. This results in a sleek typing sensation that some users find enjoyable. Unfortunately, information on the tactile feel of the Gateron Type A switch is not available.
In conclusion, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that they offer different sound profiles and potentially different typing experiences. Depending on whether you prefer a higher-pitched, resonant sound with a polished and creamy feel, or a more neutral and subdued sound with an unknown feel, you can make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile with a polished and creamy typing feel, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a more neutral, subdued sound profile with a smooth and buttery typing experience, then the Type A switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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