Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Yunhai stand out as two intriguing linear options, each offering distinct characteristics catering to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is celebrated for its budget-friendly excellence, providing a bouncy typing feel and a higher-pitched clacky sound that many users find satisfying. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a lively and resonant experience during typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai presents a more relaxed approach, characterized by its deep, rounded sound profile and incredibly light actuation force, making it perfect for typists who prefer a gentle and effortless touch. While both switches fall under the linear category, they cater to varying needs in terms of sound and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Yunhai switches present a fascinating comparison between polycarbonate and nylon. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. Polycarbonate's rigidity allows for a crisper audio signature that can be highlighted when using RGB lighting, as its translucent nature enhances the visual experience. In contrast, the Yunhai's top housing is crafted from nylon, which produces a deeper and rounder sound due to its softer nature. This difference lends the Yunhai an emotional richness in auditory feedback, contrasting with the G Pro's precision. Thus, users can expect distinct auditory experiences depending on the top housing material, marking a clear divergence in the overall sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Yunhai utilize nylon, making their bottom-out sounds and typing sensations more alike. Nylon's inherent qualities come into play here, as its soft structure absorbs sound, delivering a fuller and more muted auditory experience. This similarity means that when typing, users will experience a consistent sensory foundation from either switch. The deeper sound produced by the nylon bottoms may also enhance tactile feedback, adding an enjoyable dimension to the typing experience despite the differing top housing materials. This shared bottom housing material provides an interesting layer of coherence between the two switches, emphasizing the depth and fullness typical of nylon housings.
In summary, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Yunhai offer contrasting experiences due to their top housing materials—polycarbonate versus nylon—the use of nylon for their bottom housings creates a shared auditory characteristic that impacts the overall feel and sound during typing. Users who prioritize visual aesthetics and a sharper sound may lean toward the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, while those who favor a deeper and more rounded sound experience may find the Yunhai appealing. Ultimately, the blend of materials in both switches underscores the distinct yet complementary auditory experiences that can be achieved through careful selection of key switch components.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai offers a lighter touch with an actuation force of just 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference means that those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming might gravitate towards the Yunhai, while users who enjoy a more substantial, tactile feel may find the G Pro 3.0 Yellow more satisfying. Thus, the Gateron switch is heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it more suitable for users who favor a firmer typing experience, while the TTC Yunhai provides a softer touch ideal for longer use without fatigue.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Yunhai has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference sets the G Pro 3.0 Yellow apart as the preferred choice for those who enjoy a more substantial key press, providing a deeper tactile response. On the other hand, the Yunhai's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking rapid responsiveness, allowing for quicker actuation during gameplay. Therefore, if you prioritize a more pronounced keystroke, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the better option, while the Yunhai caters to those who favor a more immediate feel.
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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 switches deliver a higher-pitched clacky sound that creates a distinct auditory profile. They produce a clean and resonant tone that is sharp and crisp, which many typists find appealing, especially if they prefer a less bass-heavy sound. This makes them suitable for users who enjoy the acoustic feedback without the depth of sound that some other switches may provide. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switch presents an unknown sound profile, which leaves its auditory characteristics open to interpretation based on the individual keyboard setup and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are known for their polished and creamy texture, creating a smooth, refined type experience. This is due to the materials and factory lubing used, which results in reduced friction and allows for seamless keystrokes. Typists will find that these switches offer a buttery smoothness as they glide effortlessly across the keys, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the TTC Yunhai switch is not described, leaving uncertainty about its tactile response and smoothness.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch stands out with its distinct high-pitched sound and polished, creamy feel, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious typists seeking auditory clarity and a smooth typing experience. The TTC Yunhai switch, while not compared directly in terms of sound and feel, offers a unique typing experience that might cater to those who lean toward lighter actuation. If both switches are similarly priced, one can expect a fairly satisfying typing experience across the board, but the preference will ultimately depend on the individual's sound and tactile requirements.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch boils down to your personal typing preferences and style. If you prefer a heavier tactile experience and enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is likely the better option for you. With its medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams, it offers a satisfying bouncy feel and a high-pitched, resonant sound profile that can enhance the typing experience for those who appreciate a bit more feedback. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter and more effortless typing style, the TTC Yunhai switch might be your best bet, with its much lighter 50 grams of bottom-out force. The Yunhai’s unique rounded sound profile and gentle actuation make it ideal for lengthy typing sessions where comfort is paramount. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value a heavier, more feedback-rich experience or a light, smooth touch that perhaps allows for quicker typing with less fatigue. Choose the one that aligns with how you intend to use your keyboard, whether for gaming, typing, or a mix of both.
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