Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Mint 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 KTT Mint. The G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch from Gateron's G Pro line-up, offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on performance. With a medium-light actuation force, these switches strike a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, providing a smooth typing experience. Additionally, the G Pro Red features a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while its medium-high pitch adds to the satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, we have the Mint switch from KTT, a linear switch known for its satisfyingly smooth feel. With a long pole stem, typing on these switches produces a poppy thockiness that many enjoy. Furthermore, the Mint switch offers a light and fleeting typing experience. Both switches have their strengths, providing different characteristics to cater to various preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Mint both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice results in a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for optimal use of RGB lighting. So, in terms of their top housing materials, these two switches offer similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, they differ slightly. The G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Mint also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. It absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches provide a similar experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Mint have similar top housing materials in the form of polycarbonate, which leads to a sharp and crisp sound profile and is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. Ultimately, while they may differ in certain aspects, these switches offer comparable qualities and experiences in terms of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. 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 sensitivity and responsiveness from both switches. However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a distinction. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is relatively light and allows for a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the Mint switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it slightly heavier and providing a more substantial typing feel. This added weight may be preferred by users who enjoy a bit more resistance and feedback while typing. Overall, those seeking a lighter typing experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red switch, while those desiring a slightly heavier and more pronounced keystroke may opt for the KTT Mint switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the KTT Mint linear 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 travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red or the KTT Mint linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable travel distance, making them ideal for users seeking a specific typing experience.
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 Mint comes in at $2.91 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. It is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the KTT Mint switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. This typically means that it has a more bass-heavy and mellower tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Similar to the G Pro 3.0 Red, the Mint switch also has a neutral sound profile. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a variety of descriptors. It is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky. This means that the switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a gentle feel and reduced friction. It provides a silky sensation when typing, making it feel like gliding your fingers across the keys effortlessly. The Mint switch, on the other hand, is described as mild and polished. This means that it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It also has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a pleasant and approachable typing feel, with the G Pro 3.0 Red offering a wider range of subjective experiences.
Taking into account the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch and the KTT Mint switch have some similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, they both offer a mild and polished experience, providing a gentle typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers additional qualities such as a creamy and silky feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing experience. Overall, both switches can provide a satisfying typing performance, but the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a wider range of subjective qualities for those who seek a more specific typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a great choice. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, you can expect a light typing feel. 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 also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch that offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a light and fleeting feel, the KTT Mint is worth considering. Its bottom out force of 53 grams provides a slightly heavier typing feel compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red, but still falls within the medium-light range. The Mint switch is also described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Similar to the G Pro 3.0 Red, the Mint switch is also considered to have a mild feel, resulting in a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users.
Ultimately, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Mint switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits. It comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. Consider factors such as budget, typing feel, sound profile, and aesthetics to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard. Overall, you can't go wrong with either choice as they both offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience.
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