KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may be torn between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White. Both switches offer unique features and benefits, making them popular choices among different types of typists. The Cream Yellow is known for its distinctive clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White is designed for delicate typists, offering an incredibly light actuation force of only 38g for effortless and sensitive keystrokes. Additionally, the G Pro White provides brighter RGB lighting with its frosted light diffuser and has a satisfying auditory feedback due to its medium-high pitch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The key difference between the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White lies in their construction. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, while the G Pro 3.0 White also boasts a polycarbonate top housing. This means that both switches will have similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it perfect for showcasing RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the switch.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and rich sound experience. Both switches benefit from the sound-dampening qualities of nylon, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a more muted sound.
When it comes to the overall impact on typing and sound, the bottom and top housing materials play distinct roles. Pressing down on either switch will be influenced by the characteristics of the bottom housing material, which affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be more influenced by the qualities of the top housing material. Understanding the differences between these housing materials allows users to determine which switch aligns more with their desired typing experience, whether it's a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller tone.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Cream Yellow requires a higher actuation force, coming in at 50 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Cream Yellow requires a force of 58 grams, whereas the G Pro 3.0 White has a lower bottom out force of 45 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 White would be the more suitable choice, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and fully press down. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions, such as in a work environment or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and resistant typing experience might lean towards the Cream Yellow. With its higher actuation and bottom out forces, it offers a stronger push feel, providing a tactile sensation that some find more satisfying.
In terms of weight, which can impact typing comfort and endurance, the G Pro 3.0 White is the lighter option. This lighter weight allows for extended typing without causing fatigue or strain. Alternatively, the heavier Cream Yellow may be preferred by those who enjoy the added heft and solidity that comes with typing on a keyboard with more force required.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cream Yellow and the G Pro 3.0 White depends on individual preference and desired typing experience. Both switches offer their own advantages, and by understanding the actuation and bottom out forces, users can make an informed decision to suit their needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Cream Yellow is shorter, providing a slightly shallower key press feel compared to the G Pro 3.0 White. The Cream Yellow falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which have become popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White has a more traditional travel distance of 4 mm, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Cream Yellow being the shorter option and the G Pro 3.0 White offering a longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White for $3.27.
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, both the Cream Yellow and G Pro 3.0 White switches are described as clacky. A clacky switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, characterized by its crisp, bright, and percussive nature. However, the G Pro 3.0 White switch also has a secondary sound descriptor of subdued, which means it produces a dampened sound compared to other switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while the Cream Yellow and G Pro 3.0 White switches have similar clacky qualities, the G Pro 3.0 White may offer a more subtle and dampened sound.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch is described as bouncy. Bouncy switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White switch has multiple feel descriptors including creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle. A creamy switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, while an easy-to-press switch requires minimal force to activate, reducing finger fatigue. A feathery switch is exceptionally light to press, reducing strain on the fingers, while a mild switch offers a gentle typing experience. A silky switch enhances smoothness and minimizes resistance when typing, while a subtle switch has a gentle resistance suitable for shared spaces. With these descriptors, the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a wide range of feel options depending on the user's preferences.
Considering all the available information, the Cream Yellow switch provides a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel due to its shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a clacky sound with the additional option of a subdued sound profile. It also provides a variety of feel options including creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, allowing users to choose the one that aligns with their preferences. It is important to note that individual preferences and factors such as keycaps and keyboard boards may also impact the subjective qualities of the switches.
Conclusion
In closing, the Cream Yellow switch is an excellent choice for those who prioritize a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel. It delivers a sharp and percussive sound when pressed, adding a unique touch to your typing experience. The bouncy sensation provides a spring-like feedback, giving you a lively feel and rebound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is perfect for individuals seeking a light and effortless typing experience. With an actuation force of only 45 grams, it requires minimal force to activate, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Furthermore, it offers a creamy and silky sensation, smoothly gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. Whether you prefer a clacky and bouncy typing experience or a creamy and feathery feel, both switches provide their own unique qualities to enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Cream Yellow and G Pro 3.0 White switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel.