Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Embark on a gaming odyssey with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch that offers unmatched value and delivers an exceptional gaming experience. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness, giving you a competitive advantage. Illuminate your gaming setup with vibrant RGB lighting and enjoy the exhilarating auditory element brought by the medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or those who spend long hours typing. With its material blend, this switch produces a crisp sound profile, allowing for a satisfying and polished typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Yanyu differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffer plastic enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for those who want a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting.
Contrastingly, the Yanyu utilizes a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing. This combination results in a pleasant sound profile that leans towards the brighter side. While not particularly sharp, the Yanyu's top housing provides a different auditory experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate housing. This blend of materials offers a distinct sound signature that caters to those who prefer a brighter sound without the sharpness.
In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Silver employs nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Yanyu features a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its bottom housing. This blend contributes to the switch's unique sound profile, offering a pleasant auditory experience that is not particularly sharp but slightly brighter. The bottom housing's impact is more noticeable on the bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the overall typing experience of each switch.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Yanyu provide unique sound profiles, their housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall sound experience. The G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound, while its nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller tone. In contrast, the Yanyu's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend in both the top and bottom housings result in a pleasant and brighter sound. Despite these differences, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience, albeit with variations in sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it relatively light in terms of force required. On the other hand, the Yanyu's actuation force is unavailable, so we cannot make a direct comparison in terms of actuation force. However, the Yanyu does have a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is also considered light.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Yanyu would provide favorable options. The lighter actuation force makes typing for longer periods of time more comfortable, whether it be for work or extended gaming sessions. However, if someone enjoys a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may lean towards options with heavier forces.
In summary, while the actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Silver is known to be 45 grams, the actuation force of the Yanyu is unavailable. However, both switches have relatively light bottom out forces, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver being slightly heavier at 50 grams compared to the Yanyu's 43 grams. Ultimately, for those looking for a lighter switch, both options would provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is also 4 mm. Both switches have the same travel distance, meaning you will experience a similar tactile feedback when pressing down on the keys.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
The SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are characterized as having a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. These switches offer a deep and rich sound during key presses, with a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The Yanyu switches, on the other hand, are described as having a neutral and thocky sound profile. They provide a moderate sound profile and are suitable for most intents and purposes. Both switches offer a satisfying sound when pressed, but the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches have a more pronounced bassy and low-pitched tone.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are characterized as being buttery and creamy. They offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. They offer a more gentle typing experience with light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switches have a lighter typing feel compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches, but both switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience.
Based on the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switches are best suited for gamers looking for a fast and responsive switch with a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. These switches offer a buttery and creamy feel, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switches are ideal for those who prefer a more delicate typing experience. They have a neutral and thocky sound profile and offer a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing feel. While the two switches have different characteristics, they both provide a satisfying sound and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you are primarily a gamer looking for an exceptional gaming experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are a great choice. With their shorter travel distance and lightning-fast responsiveness, these switches provide a competitive advantage in gaming. Additionally, the vibrant RGB lighting and medium-high pitch add an exhilarating element to your gaming sessions. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer unmatched value, delivering ultimate gaming performance without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a delicate typing experience or type for extended periods of time, the Yanyu switches are a better fit. With their crisp sound profile and various descriptors like "neutral," "thocky," "feathery," and "subtle," these switches offer a more gentle typing feel and reduce finger fatigue. Whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, using these switches at home or work, the Yanyu switches provide a comfortable and approachable typing experience.
Ultimately, consider your priorities in terms of gaming performance and typing comfort when making a decision between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch. Both switches have their unique advantages, so choose the one that aligns with your specific needs and enhances your overall keyboard experience.
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