Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Strawberry both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavy linear switch design, providing a more substantial typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry, with its attractive pink and clear housings, offers a smoother actuation and comfortable feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black emphasizes a medium-high pitch auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Strawberry is known for its low-pitched sound and frictionless feel. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference. 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
62g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile described as clacky. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer plastic material. Both housing materials provide a unique sound experience, but the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a thinner and more satisfying sound, while the Strawberry offers a clearer and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting for aesthetic appeal.
In terms of bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes POM material, which generates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the top housing's characteristics. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, aligning with the qualities of the top housing. The split between the top and bottom housing materials results in a unique sound experience when using these switches, with each component impacting the overall sound and feel of key presses differently.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and KTT Strawberry have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a thinner and clacky sound, with the POM bottom housing adding a deeper touch, while the KTT Strawberry provides a sharper and crisper sound profile throughout. The choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound characteristics and aesthetics, with both options offering unique qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the typing experience. 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 feel. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry offers a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, resulting in a medium typing experience. Those who prefer a heavier push may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black for a more substantial typing experience, while individuals who enjoy a lighter touch may opt for the KTT Strawberry for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. This can result in a similar typing experience and feel when using a keyboard with either of these switches. The equal travel distance of 4 mm on both switches makes them a suitable choice for users who prefer consistency in their typing experience. Both switches offer a standard travel distance, resulting in a smooth and consistent keystroke without any significant differences between the two.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. In comparison, the KTT Strawberry linear switch offers a low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone, creating a more relaxed auditory experience. When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as creamy and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation with gentle resistance. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch appeals to those seeking a heavier typing feel with a medium-high pitch sound, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch caters to individuals looking for a smoother and more polished typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Depending on personal preferences, both switches are sure to deliver satisfying results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is important to take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more substantial typing feel with a medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the KTT Strawberry switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Mentioned in this article
