Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, and the KTT Matcha, a tactile switch. If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, these two options offer distinct features to enhance your typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red, known for being budget-friendly, provides a smooth typing experience with its medium-light actuation force. It also boasts vibrant RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience with its medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha stands out with its comfortable and snappy tactility, ensuring a pleasant typing sensation. Additionally, its long pole stem guarantees a clean bottom-out sound. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Matcha keyboards both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, perfect for those who appreciate a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for stunning RGB lighting effects to enhance the overall aesthetics of the keyboard. Therefore, both keyboards offer similar results in terms of sound and lighting when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, there is a notable difference between the two keyboards. The G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Matcha opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Matcha delivers a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the keys, giving each keyboard a distinct typing experience.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Matcha keyboards feature similar polycarbonate top housings, resulting in sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profiles, as well as the ability to showcase RGB lighting. However, they differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Red's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. This discrepancy in bottom housing material contributes to the overall typing experience when pressing down on the keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is evident that both switches offer a relatively light typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Matcha requires an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that both switches are equally light in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke and press all the way down. Therefore, users can expect similar results from either switch in terms of a lightweight typing experience that allows for extended periods of comfortable typing or gaming.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches offer a consistent and reliable typing experience in terms of the distance you feel when pressing the keys. As such, you can expect similar results in terms of comfort and feedback between the two switches. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Red or the Matcha switch, you can be confident in the familiarity of the travel distance they provide.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user or if you plan to use the switch at home or work. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The sound of the Matcha switch can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, but based on the available information, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch will provide a more neutral sound experience while the Matcha switch will offer a clackier and more distinctive sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. The switch is designed to be smooth and buttery, providing a gliding sensation as your fingers effortlessly melt into each keystroke. It offers a gentle typing experience that stands in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. The polished finish and reduced friction also contribute to a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. It offers a tactile experience that feels like it has two stages, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The switch is super responsive, providing a lively typing feel, and offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the Matcha switch has a feathery actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Based on this information, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch provides a smoother and more versatile typing experience, while the Matcha switch offers a more tactile and responsive feel.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch and the KTT Matcha switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch has a more neutral sound profile, providing a moderate sound experience suitable for various purposes. It offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky feel, delivering a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Matcha switch produces a clacky sound, offering a crisp, bright, and percussive typing experience. It provides a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel, with a two-stage tactile sensation, high responsiveness, and a light actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, if you are looking for a similar level of smoothness in sound and a versatile typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch would be a good option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are 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 light bottom out force of 50 grams, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The G Pro Red also features a frosted light diffuser for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding to its appeal. In terms of sound, the G Pro Red is described as neutral, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. Additionally, the G Pro Red provides a creamy and mild typing experience, with a smooth and polished finish that enhances the overall smoothness and reduces friction.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that offers a comfortable and snappy typing experience, the KTT Matcha would be a great option. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it provides a gentle resistance and a light typing feel. The Matcha switch features a stepped feel, providing a mild and accented tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It also offers a clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. This switch is suitable for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, as it is described as snappy and feathery, reducing finger fatigue and strain during extended typing sessions.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Matcha depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smooth linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the G Pro Red would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a stepped feel and clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha switch would be a suitable option. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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