Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavy 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, appealing to those who seek a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch boasts a light 45g bottom-out, providing a smooth and comfortable typing feel perfect for light typists. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a medium-high pitch auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Purple Star switch delivers a neutral sound signature and easy-to-press keys. These general differences may help guide your decision, 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
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 features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, often described as clacky. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star utilizes a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the G Pro 3.0 Black's top housing leans towards a sharper and higher sound, while the Purple Star's top housing provides a smoother and deeper tone.
In terms of bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Purple Star utilize POM material, known for its ability to create a unique and pleasing sound profile. The bottom housing's influence is more noticeable on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Despite both switches utilizing the same material for the bottom housing, slight differences in design and construction may lead to varying experiences in sound and feel when typing or gaming.
When considering how the housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes evident that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles. The qualities of the housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key, and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down. While the G Pro 3.0 Black and KTT Purple Star may have similarities in their bottom housing material, the overall typing experience is likely to be subtly different due to the unique characteristics of their respective top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that they offer different weight profiles. 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 Purple Star features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a more lightweight typing feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black is suitable for those who prefer a substantial push feel and a more robust typing experience, while the Purple Star is ideal for users who enjoy a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two compared to the KTT Purple Star linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a deeper keystroke feel compared to the Purple Star, which offers a slightly shallower experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Purple Star, while those who prefer a more traditional typing experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which adds a sense of tactile feedback to the typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a more low-pitched sound, creating a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is soothing to the ears. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, catering to different preferences for sound during typing sessions.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. This provides a luxurious feel to typing, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a refined tactile response. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is described as mild and easy-to-press, delivering a gentle typing experience with minimal resistance. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended use.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch stands out for its premium quality construction and medium-heavy feel, offering a balanced typing experience with a clacky sound profile and creamy typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound signature, ideal for light typists seeking comfort and ease during typing sessions. While both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user. If you enjoy a clacky sound and creamy feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is the choice for you, while the KTT Purple Star is perfect for those who prefer a low-pitched sound and easy-to-press typing sensation.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a more substantive typing experience and a balanced sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a buttery smooth feel and a neutral sound signature, the Purple Star could be the ideal switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel.
Mentioned in this article
