KTT F2 vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red both offer a unique typing experience, but in different ways. The KTT F2 is known for its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel with medium-light weightiness, providing a comfortable and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red from Gateron's G Pro line-up offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, making it responsive yet easy to use. Additionally, the G Pro Red features a frosted light diffuser for brighter RGB lighting effects and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory experience. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that cater 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
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
The KTT F2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red both feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housing materials is beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing.
In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate top housings of both the F2 and G Pro 3.0 Red offer similar characteristics such as a sharper and more resonant sound. However, the nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a different typing experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the F2. While the F2's bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the G Pro 3.0 Red's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing.
Overall, the choice between the KTT F2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities with their housing materials, with the F2 focusing on the sharpness and clarity of polycarbonate and the G Pro 3.0 Red emphasizing the deeper and fuller sound of nylon. Depending on whether you prioritize a sharper sound profile or a fuller typing experience, either switch could be a suitable option for your keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is evident that the F2 requires a lighter touch for actuation at 43 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red at 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the F2 also has a higher force requirement at 53 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red at 50 grams. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter in terms of actuation force, the F2 is lighter in terms of bottom out force. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the F2 may be preferred for longer typing sessions due to its lower actuation force, while the G Pro 3.0 Red may be favored by those who prefer a lighter touch overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The F2 offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a deeper key press feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their own advantages, with the F2 offering speed and the G Pro 3.0 Red offering a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
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 KTT F2 linear switch is known for its distinct hollow sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offers a medium-high pitch sound that is satisfying to the ears. Both switches fall under the category of neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. However, the F2 switch may offer a more subdued sound compared to the G Pro Red due to its specific characteristics. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT F2 linear switch is described as feathery and mild, offering a light typing experience that is comfortable for extended use. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its creamy and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing sensation. Both switches fall under the mild category, ensuring a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. However, the F2 switch may provide a more subtle resistance compared to the creamy and polished feel of the G Pro Red, giving users a different tactile experience.
Overall, both the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the F2 switch provides a distinct hollow sound signature and a lightly textured feel, the G Pro Red switch offers a medium-high pitch sound and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can achieve similar results with either switch, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a lightly textured feel and a distinct hollow sound signature, along with a medium-light actuation force, the KTT F2 switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a medium-light actuation force and enhanced RGB lighting effects, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize tactile nuances and a unique sound signature (F2) or a smooth and responsive typing experience with vibrant RGB lighting effects (G Pro 3.0 Red). Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy an enhanced keyboard experience.
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