Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Presenting the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch, and the KTT Strawberry, a linear switch. These two mechanical keyboard switches have distinct qualities that make them stand out in their respective categories. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, part of Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series, offers an economical solution without compromising on quality. With a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, it provides a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, creating a visually immersive experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch, known for its attractive pink and clear housings, offers a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. It boasts low-pitched sound, frictionless operation, and a buttery and polished finish. Choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the KTT Strawberry, both switches feature polycarbonate top housing. This means that both switches will have a similar sound profile, characterized as sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting, making it aesthetically pleasing. Therefore, if you prioritize the sound profile and want to use RGB lighting, both switches will provide similar results.
However, there is a key difference in the housing materials of the bottom housing. The G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Strawberry uses a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on the G Pro 3.0 Brown will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nylon material, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Strawberry will contribute to a more clear and resonant sound profile.
Considering the impact of the housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's sound and feel when pressing down on a key will be influenced more by the nylon bottom housing. This will result in a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key will be more affected by the polycarbonate top housing. The Strawberry, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, will have a more resonant and clear bottom-out sound, while the top housing will still contribute to a sharper and crisper sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the two switches offer subtly different sound experiences due to the variation in their bottom housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have different actuation forces and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Strawberry has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. In terms of actuation force, the Strawberry is lighter, requiring less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Strawberry and the G Pro 3.0 Brown have a similar force requirement. Both switches fall into the medium range for bottom out force.
The choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Strawberry, as its lower actuation force allows for a more effortless keystroke. This can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it reduces fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Brown, as its higher actuation force provides a tactile feedback that some find more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision should be based on personal preference and the desired typing experience, as both switches offer their own unique characteristics.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches provide a similar experience when it comes to the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Strawberry, you can expect a consistent travel distance 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 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback. This adds an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. Low-pitched switches typically feature a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is described as offering an easy-to-press experience. These switches have a gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The G Pro 3.0 Brown switch can be considered mild in terms of feel, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls into a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of its sound and feel qualities. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is also described as being stepped, meaning it has a two-stage tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as having a frictionless and silky feel. These switches offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The KTT Strawberry switch can also be described as buttery, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This could be due to the materials used and/or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch and the KTT Strawberry switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Brown switch provides a medium-high pitch sound and a feel that is easy-to-press, mild, and stepped. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch offers a low-pitched sound along with a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel. It's important to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between these switches. However, if you are looking for a similar low-pitched sound and smooth feel to the KTT Strawberry switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch might provide a comparable experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is an excellent choice. These switches provide a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow, creating a delightful and subtle tactile sensation. The frosted light diffuser ensures that your RGB lighting shines brighter, enhancing the visual experience. With a medium-high pitch, the G Pro Brown offers a satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is the one for you. With its attractive pink and clear housings, these switches are not only visually appealing but also offer a comfortable feel and reliable performance. Described as low-pitched, the Strawberry switches provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, enhancing the overall auditory experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the KTT Strawberry linear switch depends on your preferences. If you prefer a tactile sensation with a medium-high pitch and a budget-friendly option, the G Pro Brown is a great choice. However, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a low-pitched auditory feedback, the Strawberry switches are the way to go. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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