Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Hyacinth, two linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and advantages. The G Pro 3.0 Red, part of Gateron's G Pro line-up, is a budget-friendly option that provides a smooth typing experience. With its medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, the G Pro Red features a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects. Its medium-high pitch also provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth stands out for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, which aims to prevent the hard bottoming-out experience often associated with longer-stem switches. This design decision prioritizes tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. The Hyacinth also deviates from the mainstream trend by using a single-stage elongated spring, resulting in a more consistent force curve. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, but 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Hyacinth both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be effectively displayed. Therefore, in terms of aesthetics and sound quality, users can expect similar results from both switches when it comes to their top housings.
In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red features a nylon bottom housing, while the Hyacinth also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing material. Typing on switches that use nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softness and sound absorption properties. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound experience when bottoming out keys. The bottom housing of each switch significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a consistent typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Hyacinth, the overall qualities provided by each housing material are split between the two components. When pressing down on these switches, users will predominantly feel the characteristics of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite this distinction, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, with the housing materials complementing each other to create a well-rounded performance.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch to the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it is evident that they have similarities in terms of actuation force. Both switches require 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This means that users can expect a similar level of responsiveness and ease of typing when using either switch. However, there is a slight difference when considering the bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is relatively light. On the other hand, the Hyacinth has a slightly higher bottom out force of 56 grams, making it slightly heavier.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience or need to type for extended periods of time, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch would be a suitable choice. Its lower bottom out force would minimize fatigue and allow for comfortable typing sessions. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel may lean towards the Hyacinth switch. With its slightly higher bottom out force, it provides a stronger push feel, giving a more satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer reliable actuation forces, but the decision should be based on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch have different travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional and deeper travel distance. On the other hand, the Hyacinth has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shallower than the G Pro 3.0 Red. These differences in travel distance can be significant depending on individual preferences. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Hyacinth would be the better choice. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial depth to your keystrokes, the G Pro 3.0 Red with its longer travel distance would be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired feel when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red for $2.77.
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Hyacinth switches can be described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound. It makes these switches suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or at work. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also dependent on other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. The creamy nature of these switches provides a smooth and buttery feeling while typing. They have a mild characteristic, meaning they offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The polished finish of the G Pro 3.0 Red results in a sleek and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Finally, the silky sensation of these switches enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth switch is described as silky and subtle. Similar to the G Pro 3.0 Red, the silky characteristic of the Hyacinth switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance. Additionally, the subtle resistance of the Hyacinth provides a gentle and light typing feel. Moreover, the sound signature of these switches is not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Hyacinth switches have their own unique qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Red offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience, while the Hyacinth provides a silky and subtle feel. In terms of sound, both switches have a neutral profile. Overall, if you are looking for a smooth and satisfying typing experience, either of these switches would be a great choice, depending on your personal preferences. While they may have different characteristics, selecting either switch would result in a similar level of performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be a great choice. With its medium-light actuation force and frosted light diffuser, you can enjoy a balanced combination of responsiveness and ease of use. The G Pro Red also provides vibrant RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a focus on tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, the KTT Hyacinth would be a suitable option. Its 3.5mm travel distance helps to avoid a hard bottoming-out experience, and the single-stage elongated spring provides a consistent force curve. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and offer a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your decision between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Hyacinth will depend on your specific preferences and typing needs.
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