Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the KTT Orange, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features for different typing experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch, presents an exceptional addition to Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series. It delivers a delightful tactile sensation with a gentle bump that enhances typing flow without overwhelming it. With a frosted light diffuser, this switch ensures that its RGB lighting shines brightly, creating an immersive visual experience. Furthermore, its medium-high pitch provides satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Orange, a linear switch, offers a completely different typing experience. With its 22mm long spring, polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and vivid orange nylon bottom housing, these switches provide a slick and frictionless typing experience. They also offer a low-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on the switch that suits your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the KTT Orange both feature polycarbonate top housings, which results in a similar sound profile for the two switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful if you plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetics, both switches offer a comparable experience with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a nylon material, while the KTT Orange opts for polycarbonate. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT Orange contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, similar to its top housing. This difference in bottom housing material results in variations in the bottom-out sound and feel of the two switches.
Overall, while the top housings of both switches offer similar sound profiles, the bottom housings introduce some key differences. The nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a deeper and fuller sound during keystrokes, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT Orange maintains the sharper and crisper sound characteristics. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between a switch with a softer and more absorbent bottom housing or one with a stiffer and more resonant bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Brown is slightly heavier than the Orange switch in both aspects. The G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Orange switch only requires 46 grams. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a bottom out force of 63 grams, whereas the Orange switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams.
The difference in weight between these two switches may impact typing or gaming experiences. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Orange switch would be an ideal choice as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out. This lighter weight allows for extended usage without causing as much fatigue, making it suitable for extensive typing or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a more substantial typing experience. This can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel on their keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown providing a heavier and more substantial feel, while the Orange switch offers a lighter and more effortless typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Orange offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Brown falls into the more traditional range, providing a deeper key press sensation, while the Orange offers a shallower experience. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who desire faster response times. If you value quick and responsive keystrokes, the Orange switch may be the preferred option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and deliberate feel when typing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown with its longer travel distance could be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience one seeks.
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 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 Brown switch produces a medium-high pitch that offers a satisfying auditory feedback. It delivers a pleasant sound profile that adds an extra layer of joy to typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch provides an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance during key presses. It requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. This switch offers a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Additionally, it is described as a mild switch, which means that its qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone. It offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Moreover, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is referenced as a stepped switch, meaning that it has two stages, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch is characterized by a bouncy feel. It provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation when pressed, offering a lively and rebounding typing experience. Additionally, the Orange switch is described as frictionless, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. It minimizes any sense of resistance or friction during key presses, resulting in a fluid travel.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and KTT Orange switches differ in their subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a medium-high pitch sound, an easy-to-press feel with a mild and stepped characteristic. On the other hand, the Orange switch has a low-pitched sound, a bouncy feel, and a frictionless typing experience. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. However, if you prefer a low-pitched sound with an easy-to-press and gentle typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch might provide similar results as the Orange switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly switch without compromising on quality, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is a great choice. These switches provide a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, ensuring a gentle bump that won't interrupt your typing flow. The RGB lighting is enhanced with a frosted light diffuser, creating an immersive visual experience. Additionally, the medium-high pitch delivers a satisfying auditory feedback, adding joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, the KTT Orange linear switch is the way to go. These switches feature a bouncy feel and offer a slick, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. With its factory-lubing, you can expect a refined and fluid key travel that minimizes friction and maximizes smoothness. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and KTT Orange linear switch depends on whether you prioritize a gentle tactile sensation with enhanced RGB lighting or a bouncy and frictionless typing experience.
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