Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TKC Kiwi. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch known for its budget-friendly price and smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, this switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. It also boasts a frosted light diffuser, enhancing the brightness and vibrancy of RGB lighting effects. Additionally, its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch designed to enhance your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. These switches offer a snappy sound profile, providing a truly immersive typing experience. They come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. Both switches have their unique qualities and appeal, 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TKC Kiwi switches have some similarities and differences. The top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red is made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Similarly, the Kiwi switch features a UHWMPE top housing, which offers resonant clacks when typing and has a bright sound signature. Both materials enhance the sound quality of the switches, providing a pleasant typing experience. However, while polycarbonate is known for its translucency and is suitable for RGB lighting, UHWMPE is a newer material that offers a distinctive sound without any mention of its compatibility with lighting effects.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a nylon material, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch incorporates a UHWMPE bottom housing, which, like the top housing, offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks during typing. While both nylon and UHWMPE contribute to the sound quality of the switches, they provide different characteristics. Nylon creates a softer and deeper sound, while UHWMPE brings a bright and resonant clack.
In terms of feel, the qualities brought by the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red will elicit a deeper and fuller sensation, while the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi will provide a bright and resonant feel. On the other hand, the top housing will primarily affect the sound when releasing a key. Thus, the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red will create a sharper and crisper sound when keys are let go, while the UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi will offer its unique bright sound signature during key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, we can see some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, meaning it requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Kiwi has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams, providing a similarly light typing experience. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force.
However, the bottom out force of these switches reveals a significant contrast. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, ensuring a consistent typing experience without exerting too much pressure on the keys. On the other hand, the Kiwi has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The difference in the bottom out force between these switches is noticeable and can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
Considering weight is crucial when selecting a switch, as it plays a role in how long one can comfortably type or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. If a lighter switch is desired, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Kiwi offer suitable options with similar actuation forces. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience, the TKC Kiwi's heavier bottom out force provides a better option compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on the user's preference for either a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it is important to note that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent and equal distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same results and will provide a similar tactile experience to users. Neither switch is shorter or longer than the other in terms of travel distance, making them equal in this aspect.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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
Sound-wise, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is known for its medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory experience. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a slightly higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which means it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This can create a more relaxed and immersive typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described with descriptors such as "creamy," "mild," "polished," and "silky." These descriptors indicate that the switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction, resulting in effortless key travel. The TKC Kiwi switch, on the other hand, is described as having a "stepped," "accented," and "polished" feel. Stepped switches provide a mild tactile experience with pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. Accented switches offer a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Similar to the G Pro 3.0 Red, the Kiwi switch also benefits from reduced friction and smooth key travel due to its polished finish.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TKC Kiwi switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red provides a medium-high pitch sound profile, while the Kiwi offers a low-pitched sound profile. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red focuses on a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience, whereas the Kiwi switch has a stepped, accented, and polished feel. Both switches have qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately depends on individual preference. If you prefer a similar sound or feel to one of the switches based on the provided descriptions, you can expect to achieve a similar result with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is an ideal choice if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that provides a smooth typing experience. With its light actuation force of 50 grams, this switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that enhances your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, this switch provides a slightly heavier feel compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. The Kiwi switches are lightly factory lubed, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. They also have a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, resulting in a truly immersive typing experience. The Kiwi switch is suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize affordability, a smooth linear switch, and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the G Pro 3.0 Red is a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-strong bump and a snappy sound profile, the TKC Kiwi switch is a suitable choice. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired level of tactility when making your decision.
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