Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and KTT Mallo mechanical keyboard switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out with its heavy linear switch design, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo is praised for its gentle tactile feedback, striking a balance between feedback and typing comfort with its medium-light feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a clacky and vibrant RGB lighting experience, the Mallo shines with its subtlety, neutrality, and versatility in various typing environments. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Mallo feature distinct housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, giving it a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Mallo uses polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials provide a satisfying sound experience, the G Pro leans towards a thinner and higher-pitched tone, while the Mallo offers a more resonant and clear sound.
In terms of bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM housing that creates a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Mallo incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which produces a fuller and rounder sound. The difference in these materials highlights the impact softer plastics like nylon can have on sound absorption, resulting in a duller yet more satisfying sound compared to the POM housing of the G Pro. Both switches offer a unique typing experience due to the distinct qualities of their bottom housings.
While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Mallo differ in their housing materials, they both prioritize sound quality and unique typing experiences. The combination of materials in each switch impacts the overall sound profile, with the top housing influencing the sound when pressing down on a key and the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether it's the sharp and clacky sound of the G Pro or the deeper and fuller sound of the Mallo, both switches offer users a satisfying typing experience with distinct characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, we see a difference in actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo features a lighter actuation force (exact value unknown) and a bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a medium-light touch. The weight of the keys is crucial as it affects typing comfort and fatigue levels. Those who prefer extended typing sessions may opt for the lighter Mallo switch, while users seeking a more substantial feel may lean towards the heavier G Pro 3.0 Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing force and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that users can expect a similar keypress experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black or the Mallo switch, you can expect consistent results in terms of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will have a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offers a clacky and medium-high pitch sound when pressed, giving a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature that strikes a balance between being noticeable for feedback purposes without being overpowering. Both switches also offer a subdued sound profile, ensuring they are not disruptive in various typing environments.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch boasts a creamy and silky typing experience due to its smooth and buttery feel with a medium-heavy actuation force. Conversely, the KTT Mallo tactile switch is described as feathery and mild, providing a more gentle and approachable typing experience suitable for longer typing sessions. Both switches also have subtle characteristics, offering a light typing feel without being bothersome in shared spaces.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both provide a balanced typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. Whether you prefer a heavier, clacky switch with a medium-high pitch sound like the G Pro 3.0 Black, or a lighter, more subtle tactile switch with a neutral sound signature like the Mallo, both options ensure a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, you should opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a balanced feel and a medium-high pitch sound profile. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a subtle tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Mallo switch would be more suitable for you. Its gentle feedback and versatile sound signature make it a great choice for various typing environments. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so consider these factors carefully before making your selection.
Mentioned in this article
