KTT F2 vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT F2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they offer unique features catered to different preferences. The F2 switches are praised for their distinct hollow sound signature, providing a comfortable and tactile typing experience with a lightly textured feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are known for their exceptional gaming performance, offering a shorter travel distance for lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting for an immersive gaming experience. While the F2 switches are ideal for those looking for a feathery and subtle typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches cater to gamers seeking a buttery and low-pitched auditory element. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. However, the F2 has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver features a nylon bottom housing. The softer nylon material of the G Pro 3.0 Silver produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the F2.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, the F2's bottom housing will contribute more to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a greater effect on the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver's nylon bottom housing will absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile overall. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate in their top housing materials, the choice of nylon for the G Pro 3.0 Silver's bottom housing offers a different typing experience compared to the F2's all-polycarbonate construction.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver each bring unique characteristics to the typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a more resonant feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, we can see that the F2 requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the F2 is slightly heavier at 53 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter at 50 grams. Both switches fall in the lighter force category, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The F2 provides a slightly more substantial typing feel with a heavier bottom out force, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a lighter touch overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Despite the minimal difference in their travel distances, the KTT F2 offers a slightly longer press down compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers seeking quicker response times. However, some users may find the slight variation in travel distance between the two switches to impact their typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the decision between the KTT F2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switches will depend on personal preference for depth in key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver 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 Silver for $3.27.
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 described as having a neutral or subdued sound profile, offering a moderate and dampened auditory experience. This makes them suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch provides a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, giving a deeper and richer sound during key presses. The difference in sound between the two switches lies in the depth and richness of the auditory feedback, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the KTT F2 switch offers a feathery, mild, and subtle typing experience. These switches are light to press, gentle in resistance, and comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth, fluid, and effortless typing sensation. The difference in feel between the two switches lies in the level of smoothness and uniformity in keystrokes, catering to different preferences for tactile feedback.
Overall, while both switches offer linear actuation and a comfortable typing experience, the KTT F2 linear switch stands out for its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch excels in providing a competitive advantage with its shorter travel distance and vibrant RGB lighting. Depending on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or gaming performance and aesthetics, you can choose between the KTT F2 and G Pro 3.0 Silver switches to enhance your typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance, and your choice should be based on your individual preferences and priorities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines: opt for the KTT F2 if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a distinct hollow sound signature, and a lightly textured feel for a comfortable typing experience suitable for both work and play. On the other hand, select the G Pro 3.0 Silver if you desire a lighter bottom out force, unmatched gaming performance with shorter travel distance and lightning-fast responsiveness, and vibrant RGB lighting with a medium-high pitch for an exhilarating auditory element during gaming sessions. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize typing comfort and tactile nuances (F2) or competitive gaming performance and visual aesthetics (G Pro 3.0 Silver) in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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