KTT Darling vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Darling and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red are both linear switches that offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The KTT Darling is known for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, with a bouncy and springy responsiveness to each keystroke, along with a high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, the G Pro Red features a frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeals, making them suitable for 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, it is evident that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. As both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual appeal when using either switch.
Where the KTT Darling and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Darling features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Red also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile during use. Despite their different top housings, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience of each switch. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, the difference in bottom housing materials (nylon) provides a unique typing experience for each switch. Users can expect a sharper, crisper sound profile with a polycarbonate top housing and a deeper, fuller sound profile with a nylon bottom housing, creating a well-rounded typing experience for both switches.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the KTT Darling has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red, which has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Darling switch requires a bit more force to press all the way down. The Darling switch would provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Red switch would be lighter and more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. Overall, while both switches have the same actuation force, the difference in bottom out force would result in slightly different typing experiences based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is clear that the Darling has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm while the G Pro 3.0 Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling's 3.5 mm travel distance provides a quicker response time, making it a favorite among gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper key press, which some may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Darling offering a shorter travel for quicker responses and the G Pro 3.0 Red providing a longer travel for a more deliberate key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red 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 Darling linear switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant qualities, creating a sharp and immersive auditory experience for the user. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of preferences and environments. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so it's important to consider these elements as well.
In terms of feel, the KTT Darling switch is characterized by its bouncy nature, providing a lively and elastic feedback sensation that adds to the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a creamy and mild typing experience, with a smooth and buttery feel that allows for effortless key presses. The polished and silky attributes of the G Pro 3.0 Red switch further enhance the typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a sleek key travel.
Considering all the available information, it's clear that the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling switch provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Red switch focuses on delivering a smooth and easy-to-use typing experience with its creamy feel and bright, medium-high pitch sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a typing experience that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy, with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, then the KTT Darling switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, budget-friendly switch with a medium-light actuation force, creamy feel, and neutral sound profile, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch could be more suitable. Consider your priorities in terms of feel, sound, and budget to make the best decision for your typing needs.
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