Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, and the KTT Purple Click, a clicky switch, both of which offer unique features and benefits for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly option that delivers a smooth typing experience with its medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. With a frosted light diffuser, this switch allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click, also known as Purple Sauce, offers a fairly high-pitched and satisfying click that adds a tactile element to each keystroke. These switches strike a perfect equilibrium between light keystrokes and pronounced tactility, providing a unique typing experience. While both switches have their own strengths, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Purple Click both feature polycarbonate top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for the translucency needed to enhance the RGB lighting experience. This means that users of both switches can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects when using RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Purple Click utilize nylon. Typing on switches that incorporate nylon housings produces a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches provide a duller and rounder sound profile when bottoming out. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users will experience a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ for a switch, the qualities associated with each housing material will be divided. When pressing down on either the G Pro 3.0 Red or the Purple Click, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the bottom housing. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be more influenced by the characteristics of the top housing. This distinction may result in slight variations in the overall typing experience between the two switches.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces. It requires a mere 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke and 50 grams to bottom out. This lightweight characteristic is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch, enabling them to type for extended periods without strain. In contrast, the Purple Click switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more of a medium-light option. This combination may appeal to individuals seeking a balance between a responsive keystroke and a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches provide relatively light typing experiences, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers an even lighter touch, whereas the Purple Click offers a slightly heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance being traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback, making them suitable options for those who prefer a shorter travel distance. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Red or the Purple Click, you can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and key response.
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 Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is known for its medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. It offers a smooth typing experience, and its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Red is described as neutral, with a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. As for feel, it is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is known for its fairly high-pitched, satisfying click. The keystrokes are light, yet offer a pronounced tactility without being overwhelming. In terms of sound, the Purple Click is described as crunchy and resonant, with a clean and sharp sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Purple Click is described as invigorating and stepped. It offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. Stepped switches have a mild tactile feel with pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Purple Click provide different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a smooth and balanced typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Purple Click offers a satisfying click and an invigorating typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience. However, both switches provide quality options for newcomers to explore in the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 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 an excellent choice. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches strike a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. Whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, the G Pro 3.0 Red is suitable for both home and work environments due to its neutral sound profile and creamy feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a satisfying click and pronounced tactility, the KTT Purple Click would be a great option. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches have a medium-light actuation force. The high-pitched, satisfying click provides an invigorating typing experience. The keystrokes on the Purple Click are light and offer a crunchy sound profile, which is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Moreover, if you enjoy a slight pre-travel and/or post-travel in your switches, the stepped feel of the Purple Click would be appealing to you.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Purple Click depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smooth, creamy typing experience with a neutral sound profile, go for the G Pro 3.0 Red. However, if you prefer a satisfying click, pronounced tactility, and a more invigorating typing sensation, the Purple Click would be the better option for you. Consider your typing style, environment, and desired sound and feel when making your decision.
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