Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, a budget-friendly mechanical keyboard switch that doesn't compromise on quality. With this switch, you can expect a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, offering a gentle bump that enhances your typing flow without overpowering it. The frosted light diffuser ensures that your RGB lighting shines brighter, providing an immersive visual experience. Additionally, the medium-high pitch of the G Pro Brown delivers satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, we have the KTT Mint, a satisfyingly smooth linear switch. Thanks to its long pole stem, typing on these switches gives you a poppy thockiness that many enthusiasts love. The Mint switch offers a light and fleeting type feel, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle experience. Both switches have different characteristics and appeal to different preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Yes
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the KTT Mint both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice provides both switches with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for those who plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through more effectively. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, users can expect similar results from both switches due to their shared top housing material.
Where the two switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The G Pro 3.0 Brown features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is a softer plastic than polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the KTT Mint also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing it with the same attributes as the G Pro 3.0 Brown. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience, characterized by a richer and more satisfying sound.
Ultimately, the qualities brought by the housing materials are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. By pressing down on either switch, users will experience the impact and sound qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. However, upon releasing a key, the sound will be influenced more by the top housing. While both switches share the same top housing material, their nylon bottom housing will contribute to a slightly different typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown and KTT Mint offering deep and full sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, some differences can be observed. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Mint's 45 grams. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Brown also has a heavier bottom out force of 63 grams compared to the Mint's 53 grams. These differences indicate that the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a slightly stronger push feel compared to the Mint switch.
However, both switches fall under the medium weight category, providing a balanced typing experience. For individuals who prefer lighter switches, the Mint offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, allowing for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown, with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Overall, both switches can provide satisfactory results depending on personal preferences. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch offer options to suit different typing styles and preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch is the same, measuring at 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Thus, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results and experiences for the user. There is no difference in the travel distance between the two switches as they both have an equal measurement of 4 mm.
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 Mint comes in at $2.91 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
In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback. The Mint, on the other hand, is described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience in different ways. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used, so individual results may vary.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It also has a mild characteristics, providing a more gentle typing experience. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is described as a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages of tactility, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Mint is also described as having a mild typing experience and a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined feel. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Mint offers a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, albeit with slightly different qualities.
Considering the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and KTT Mint switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a medium-high pitch sound with a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more audible and tactile feedback. It is easy-to-press, offers minimal resistance, and has a stepped feel. On the other hand, the Mint offers a low-pitched sound profile with a smooth linear typing experience. It has a light and fleeting type feel, along with a polished finish for reduced friction. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, providing options for different preferences. However, it is important to note that individual results may vary depending on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used. Overall, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Mint, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinct subjective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. The G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a delightful and subtle tactile sensation with a medium-high pitch, providing a satisfying auditory feedback. It is best known for its easy-to-press feel, as these switches offer gentle resistance during key presses, making typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the Mint provides a smooth and satisfying linear typing experience, with a light and fleeting feel. These switches are described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high pitch and an easy-to-press feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be the ideal choice for you. It also offers a frosted light diffuser, enhancing your RGB lighting experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and polished linear switch with a light and fleeting type feel, the Mint would be a great option. It provides a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness.
Consider your personal preferences, typing style, and the characteristics described to make an informed decision between these two switches. Both switches offer their own unique qualities and can enhance your typing experience depending on your preferences.
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