Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Orange 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 Orange mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black from Gateron is praised for its medium-heavy feel with 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantive typing experience. Additionally, its medium-high pitch auditory experience and frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects set it apart. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches are recognized for their bouncy type feel with a 22mm long spring, polycarbonate milky top housing, and vivid orange nylon bottom housing. These switches excel in providing a frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, thanks to their excellent factory-lubing. Both switches have their distinct qualities, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on your specific preferences and typing habits. 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
46g
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
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and KTT Orange both feature unique housing materials that contribute significantly to the overall sound profile of the switches. The G Pro 3.0 Black uses a proprietary INK blend for the top housing, which results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile described as clacky. In contrast, the Orange utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The difference in sound between the two switches can be attributed to the characteristics of their respective housing materials, with the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a thinner and higher-pitched sound compared to the Orange's clearer and resonant sound.
In terms of their bottom housings, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Orange boasts a polycarbonate bottom housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of different materials for the bottom housings of these switches results in distinct sound characteristics when pressing down on the keys. The POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a unique sound experience on bottom-out, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Orange enhances the impact and clarity of the sound when typing.
While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and KTT Orange both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, they also share similarities in their design. Both switches feature a combination of different housing materials for the top and bottom, which allows for a balanced sound experience when typing. Additionally, the use of clear housing, particularly in the top housing, enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Despite the differences in sound characteristics between the two switches, their housing materials contribute to a satisfying typing experience that caters to individual preferences in sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it is evident that they have significant differences. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a heavier option. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a lighter option. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, perfect for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Orange switch. The 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper press feel, which may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Orange switch is shorter, offering a quicker and more responsive typing experience, which is favored by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance - whether you prefer a deeper and more tactile feel or a shorter and more responsive 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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 is characterized by a clacky and subdued profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound while also being somewhat dampened. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch features a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, so your choice will ultimately depend on the type of sound you prefer while typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is often described as creamy, silky, and subtle, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a gentle resistance and minimal sound resonance. Meanwhile, the KTT Orange switch provides a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, giving a spring-like feedback sensation with extremely smooth and effortless key presses. Both switches excel in different aspects of typing feel, so your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a silky smooth experience or a more lively and bouncy feel while typing.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky and subdued sound with a creamy and silky typing feel, while the KTT Orange switch offers a low-pitched sound and a bouncy, frictionless typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel, you can select either switch to achieve a satisfying typing experience that suits your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance at their respective price points, ensuring that you will get similar results in terms of durability and overall performance regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing feel with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force, as well as a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing feel with a bouncy sensation, slick frictionless typing experience, and a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, it's important to choose a switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall keyboard experience.