Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura mechanical keyboard switches, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is ideal for those who prefer a linear switch, offering a high-pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel while typing. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura is a tactile switch that provides a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, with a balanced tactility that is pronounced but not overpowering. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, catering to different preferences and needs. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Purple Sakura also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for similar sound characteristics. This means that both switches will provide a more rounded and dull sound due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon.
In terms of housing materials, both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Purple Sakura switches have similar qualities due to their polycarbonate top housings. The sharp and clear sound profile created by the stiff polycarbonate material is consistent across both switches, making them suitable for users looking for a distinct typing experience. However, the differences lie in the bottom housing material, where the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound, while the Purple Sakura also utilizes nylon for a rounder sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the sound and feel that users are looking for in their keyboards.
While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Purple Sakura switches share similarities in their top housings, the variations in their bottom housings offer slightly different typing experiences. The impact of the bottom housing material is more pronounced when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users may find the G Pro 3.0 Yellow to provide a more impactful bottom-out sound due to its nylon bottom housing, while the Purple Sakura may offer a softer and rounder typing experience with its nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of initial force needed to register a keystroke. However, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 60 grams, making it slightly heavier when fully pressed down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, as it requires less force to bottom out, making it easier on the fingers during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow for its heavier bottom out force, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow. The 0.8 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the Purple Sakura, while those who prefer a deeper key press experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. Ultimately, both switches offer different travel distances catered to different preferences, providing users with options based on their personal preference for typing or gaming experiences.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 Yellow linear switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, giving a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch provides a more neutral sound, suitable for various situations due to its moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile. The choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile desired for the typing experience.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. The Purple Sakura tactile switch, on the other hand, is known for its buttery, mild, and snappy feel, providing a seamless and responsive typing sensation. Again, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for typing feel and overall comfort during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile with a polished and creamy typing feel, or a more neutral sound with a buttery, mild, and snappy typing sensation, both switches offer unique advantages. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, your choice should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched and resonant sound profile with a polished and creamy typing feel, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the right switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a neutral sound profile with a buttery, mild, and snappy typing feel, then the Purple Sakura might be more suitable. Consider how you prioritize sound, feel, and actuation force when making your decision, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and enhances your overall typing experience.
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