Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Glimp mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavy actuation and bottom-out forces, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Glimp switch offers a medium-light feel with tactile feedback, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. While the G Pro 3.0 Black is known for its medium-high pitch auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Glimp switch boasts a fairly clacky sound profile that adds an enjoyable element to typing sessions. 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
60g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Glimp both offer unique sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Glimp utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The differences in sound can be attributed to the stiffness of the polycarbonate material compared to the INK blend used in the G Pro 3.0 Black.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a POM bottom housing that produces a deep and relatively muted sound profile. In contrast, the Glimp utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the choice between POM and nylon bottom housing can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users looking for a specific sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Glimp will come down to personal preference for sound and feel. Both switches offer distinct characteristics in their housing materials that can cater to different typing preferences. Whether you prefer the clacky sound of the G Pro 3.0 Black with its INK blend top housing, or the crisper sound of the Glimp with its polycarbonate top housing, each switch provides a unique typing experience that users can enjoy. Ultimately, understanding how each housing material contributes to the sound profile will help users make an informed decision based on their personal preferences.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is heavier than the KTT Glimp linear switch in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Black requires 60 grams of force to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp only needs 43 grams to actuate and 53 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-light switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the KTT Glimp, as it requires less force to type, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, catering to those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding typing force and typing comfort.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of how the switches feel and respond during use. Despite both switches having the same travel distance, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black may still be perceived as the shorter option due to its reputation for providing a slightly quicker key press compared to the KTT Glimp. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp may be seen as the longer option in terms of overall actuation feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Glimp switches are described as having a clacky sound profile, which means they produce sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. While the Glimp switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes, including both beginners and advanced users, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more subdued sound, creating a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Ultimately, both switches provide an enjoyable auditory experience, catering to different preferences in sound.
When it comes to the typing feel, both switches offer a smooth and buttery experience, described as creamy. This sensation is due to the lubricant applied in the switches at the factory or specific materials used, resulting in a silky typing experience. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is also described as having a subtle feel, with gentle resistance suitable for shared spaces, while the Glimp switch provides a mild typing experience, appealing to a wider range of users due to its approachable qualities. Overall, both switches deliver a satisfying and responsive feel to enhance typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Glimp switches may offer slightly different sound and feel profiles, they both provide premium quality experiences at their respective price points. Whether you prefer a heavier linear switch with a more subdued sound like the G Pro 3.0 Black or a medium-light switch with a clacky sound like the Glimp, you can expect similar results in terms of a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, ensuring a customized typing experience tailored to individual needs.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the KTT Glimp linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a more substantial typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black with its medium-heavy feel and clacky sound profile may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more balanced typing experience without overwhelming resistance, the Glimp switch with its medium-light feel and clacky sound profile could be the ideal choice. Consider your typing preferences, whether you enjoy a creamy, silky feel or a mild, approachable typing experience, as well as your sound preferences, whether you prefer a clacky or more subdued sound profile, when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer quality and features that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your individual needs and preferences.