Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the KTT Mallo mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both switches offer a tactile typing experience with their own unique characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is praised for its budget-friendly yet high-quality construction, boasting a subtle tactile sensation with a medium-high pitch for auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo is known for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, making it a versatile option for various typing environments. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides an easy-to-press key feel, the Mallo offers a feathery touch that strikes a balanced chord for typists. 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the KTT Mallo, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, the bottom housings differ, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown using nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials could result in a different overall typing experience between the two switches.
Despite both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the KTT Mallo featuring polycarbonate top housings, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While the nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Brown produces a deeper and fuller sound, the Mallo's polycarbonate bottom housing may result in a clearer and sharper sound. This difference in bottom housing materials could impact the overall sound experience and typing feedback of each switch. Additionally, the top housing material of both switches plays a significant role in the sound profile when pressing and releasing keys, with polycarbonate lending a distinct tone to the typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the KTT Mallo have similar top housing materials in polycarbonate, providing a sharp, crisp sound profile suitable for RGB lighting. However, their differing bottom housing materials, nylon for the G Pro 3.0 Brown and polycarbonate for the Mallo, bring unique sound characteristics to each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Mallo may provide a clearer and sharper tone. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, we can see some differences between the two. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Mallo has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires a slightly heavier force to activate a keystroke compared to the Mallo. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as a lighter weight may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier weight may provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide a similar typing experience with no noticeable difference in distance traveled. So, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Mallo, you can expect to get comparable results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown 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 Brown 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 Brown switch offers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch is described as having a neutral sound signature, not dominating nor fading into the background, making it a versatile choice for various typing environments. Depending on other factors such as your choice of board and keycaps, both switches can provide enjoyable sound experiences.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses that require minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the mild and stepped characteristics of the switch enhance the typing experience by providing a low-impact feel. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch is described as feathery and mild, requiring little exertion from your fingers and offering a gentle typing experience that is comfortable for extended use. The switch also has a subtle feel that maintains a light typing experience, making it suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and KTT Mallo switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a medium-high pitch and easy-to-press feel, the KTT Mallo offers a neutral sound signature and a feathery, mild typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch or the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a slightly more pronounced tactile bump, then the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more subtle tactile bump, then the Mallo switch might be the more suitable choice. Additionally, if you prioritize a light and easy-to-press typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Mallo switch could be the ideal fit. Consider your typing needs and preferences carefully when making your decision, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles.
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