Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. KTT Orange

Overview

Looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch can be overwhelming with so many options on the market. Two popular choices in the linear switch category are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Orange. The G Pro 3.0 Red is known for its budget-friendly price point and smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The frosted light diffuser allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches offer a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. With a long spring and polycarbonate milky top housing, these switches provide a slick feel and a low-pitched sound profile. Thanks to their excellent factory-lubing, they offer a refined, fluid key travel that minimizes friction and maximizes smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

KTT Orange Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Orange both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a similar sound profile for both switches, as polycarbonate is known to create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar auditory and visual experiences when pressing keys on either switch.

Where they differ is in the material used for the bottom housing. The G Pro 3.0 Red opts for a nylon bottom housing, which brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to the typing experience. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Orange switch utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which shares the same properties as its top housing. This means that the Orange switch will also have a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile throughout.

When it comes to the feel of the switch, the bottom housing plays a more significant role. The G Pro 3.0 Red's nylon bottom housing will have an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key. On the other hand, the top housing, whether it is polycarbonate for both switches, will mainly affect the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect a slightly different tactile experience between the two switches due to the varying characteristics of their bottom 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 Orange linear switch, there are both similarities and differences to note. In terms of weight, the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Meanwhile, the Orange switch is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. While the differences in force are minimal, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red, as its actuation and bottom out forces are slightly lower. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel may opt for the KTT Orange switch, as its forces are slightly higher. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively light and comfortable typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Red being lighter and the Orange being slightly heavier.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference in length. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is a more traditional length, while the Orange has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. If you are a gamer looking for faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Orange switch may be preferable. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press experience, the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Red may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of key press responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is considered a neutral switch with a moderate sound profile. This means that it strikes a balance between different types of switches and can suit both beginners and advanced users, as well as be used in various settings such as at home or work. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch has a low-pitched sound profile. This results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a different auditory experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. With lubrication applied at the factory, these switches provide a smooth and buttery sensation, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. The typing experience is gentle and approachable, falling within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. The polished finish and reduced friction further contribute to a sleek and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch provides a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. The keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The switch offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction.

In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and KTT Orange switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a moderate sound profile and provides a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch has a low-pitched sound profile and offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. It is important to consider personal preferences and the specific typing experience desired when choosing between these switches. However, both switches aim to provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, albeit with different characteristics.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is a great choice. Its light bottom out force of 50 grams strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, allowing for a smooth and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser enables brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. With its creamy, mild, polished, and silky feel, you can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy type feel and a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange switch would be more suitable. With its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, it provides a slick and frictionless typing experience. The polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and vivid orange nylon bottom housing contribute to its unique feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Orange switch depends on your specific preferences and priorities in terms of typing experience, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more

KTT Orange Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn more