Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, and the TKC Kiwi, a tactile switch, we are presented with two distinct options to enhance your typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a medium-heavy feel with 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, ideal for those seeking a more substantive typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi is designed with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile for an immersive typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more balanced and clacky typing experience with vibrant RGB lighting effects, the TKC Kiwi presents a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TKC Kiwi both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Kiwi switches utilize UHWMPE top housing, which offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. While both switches offer a satisfying sound experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a thinner and higher-pitched sound, while the Kiwi provides a brighter and more resonant typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the G Pro 3.0 Black is equipped with POM housings that create a deep and relatively muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches feature UHWMPE bottom housing, which contributes to the bright and resonant clacks when typing. The differences in bottom housing material between the two switches result in unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a deeper sound, the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi adds brightness and resonance to the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TKC Kiwi will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile. The G Pro 3.0 Black's combination of INK blend and POM housing provides a clacky and relatively muted sound, while the Kiwi's UHWMPE top and bottom housing create a brighter and more resonant typing experience. Both switches offer unique attributes that can enhance the overall typing experience, whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a more resonant typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on which sound characteristics align best with your preferences.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch both fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Kiwi's lighter 43 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force with the G Pro 3.0 Black at 70 grams and the Kiwi at 67 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may opt for the TKC Kiwi with its lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar keypress experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. This similarity in travel distance may result in a consistent typing feel for those who switch between keyboards featuring these switches. Overall, the travel distance of both switches contributes to a comfortable and efficient typing experience.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is known for its clacky and somewhat subdued sound profile, providing a satisfyingly sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, delivering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout, keycaps, and typing technique, so individual preferences may vary.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is characterized as creamy, silky, and subtle, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a gentle resistance. This results in a typing sensation akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Conversely, the TKC Kiwi switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished, providing a tactile feedback that feels like two stages, with a medium amount of tactility and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to enhance the tactile feedback during typing, catering to users who prefer either a more subtle or prominent tactile feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles to cater to different preferences. While the G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a clacky and creamy typing experience, the TKC Kiwi offers a low-pitched and stepped tactile feedback. Both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience and showcase the innovation and quality that Gateron and TKC are known for in the mechanical keyboard community. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either switch, ensuring a premium and immersive typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, consider your preference for a heavier typing experience with a balanced feel and medium-high pitch sound profile. The G Pro 3.0 Black is ideal for those who enjoy a substantive typing experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-strong bump at the top of each key press with a snappy sound profile and smooth typing experience right out of the box, the TKC Kiwi is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a heavier linear switch or a tactile switch with a satisfying bump and immersive sound experience. Choose the switch that best suits your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
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