KTT Ash Gray vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Ash Gray, a tactile switch, and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a satisfying tactile response without being too overwhelming, offering a light touch with crisp actuation. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black from Gateron boasts a heavier actuation force for a more substantive typing experience, along with a unique medium-high pitch auditory feedback and enhanced RGB lighting effects. While the Ash Gray is easy-to-press and mild, the G Pro 3.0 Black is clacky, creamy, subdued, silky, and subtle. 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
38g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black differ in terms of their composition and the resulting sound profiles. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing that provides a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a proprietary INK blend top housing that offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. While both materials result in satisfying sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Ash Gray is stiffer, creating a clearer and more resonant sound, whereas the INK blend of the G Pro 3.0 Black delivers a unique and pleasing tone.
On the other hand, the housing materials in the bottom portion of the switches also contribute significantly to the overall sound profile. The Ash Gray utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing that creates a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side, with a relatively more muted tone. Both materials offer distinct advantages, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound while POM delivers a more subtle and muted tone.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black differ, each brings unique qualities to the overall sound profile of the switches. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches offer a range of sounds and feels to cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is evident that the Ash Gray is lighter in both aspects. The Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. The lighter actuation force of the Ash Gray makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier forces of the G Pro 3.0 Black provide a more pronounced typing feel for those seeking a substantial keystroke experience.Overall, those looking for a lighter touch should opt for the KTT Ash Gray, while individuals who prefer a heavier push should go for the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black.
Travel distance
The Ash Gray tactile switch from KTT has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch. This means that the Ash Gray offers a slightly shallower press compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black. For those who prefer a quicker response time and a more responsive feel, the Ash Gray may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial key press with a deeper travel distance, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 KTT Ash Gray switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced users. This switch provides a moderate actuation force requirement with a moderate sound profile, making it versatile for various environments. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Additionally, it also has a subdued sound quality, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The auditory experience of the G Pro 3.0 Black is defined by a medium-high pitch, which can enhance the overall typing experience for users who enjoy a more pronounced sound feedback.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch provides an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The overall typing feel is described as mild, offering a safe middle-ground zone for users. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a creamy and silky typing experience, characterized by smooth and buttery key presses. This switch minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, providing users with a luxurious typing sensation. The G Pro 3.0 Black also has a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel, making it suitable for shared spaces where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ash Gray provides a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black excels in producing a clacky sound and a creamy, silky typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can find the right fit for their mechanical keyboard setup. Whether you prefer a subtle and mild typing experience or a more pronounced and luxurious feel, both the Ash Gray and G Pro 3.0 Black switches can deliver satisfying results based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a light touch with a crisp actuation and a moderate sound profile, the Ash Gray may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy feel and a clacky, medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you seek.
Mentioned in this article
