Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Strawberry, both linear switches that offer unique features and benefits to enhance your typing experience. Starting with the G Pro 3.0 Red, this budget-friendly switch from Gateron's G Pro line-up is designed for smooth typing. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a perfect 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. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch boasts attractive pink and clear housings, exuding a delightful aesthetic. It offers a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. The Strawberry switch is known for its low-pitched sound, frictionless movement, and buttery smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Strawberry both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in similar characteristics. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, which produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting, as it allows the light to pass through effectively. Therefore, both switches will provide comparable sound profiles and aesthetic appeal when it comes to the top housing.
However, the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Strawberry differ in terms of their bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a nylon bottom housing, while the Strawberry uses a polycarbonate one. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Strawberry contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It provides a clear and resonant sound similar to that of the polycarbonate top housing. Consequently, the bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red and the top housing of the Strawberry will have different impacts on the sound and feel of the switch.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Strawberry share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, leading to a comparable sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting. However, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red generates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Strawberry contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. These distinctions bring variations in sound and feel depending on which housing you press down on in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Red requires 45 grams, while the Strawberry requires 43 grams. Although the Strawberry has a slightly lower actuation force, both switches can deliver similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a notable difference. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is relatively light compared to the Strawberry's 62 grams. This means that for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Strawberry switch would be the better option.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch for longer periods of typing, making the G Pro 3.0 Red an ideal choice. This lighter weight is beneficial when using the keyboard for work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, users looking for a more robust typing experience may opt for the Strawberry switch due to its heavier forces.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the KTT Strawberry linear switch. The Strawberry switch offers a slightly lower actuation force but a significantly higher bottom out force, providing a stronger typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier feel while typing.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, we find that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, users will experience the same distance of travel for both switches. Whether it's the G Pro 3.0 Red or the Strawberry, typists can expect a consistent and familiar feeling of key travel. With these switches, users can confidently expect similar results in terms of the distance traveled from the top to the bottom, ensuring a consistent typing experience regardless of their choice.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is considered to have a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most situations, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the keyboard at home or work. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, which typically gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a range of descriptors that indicate a smooth and comfortable typing experience. It is described as creamy, indicating a smooth and buttery typing sensation, possibly due to factory lubrication or specific materials used. It is also described as mild, implying a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. Additionally, the switch is referred to as polished, indicating a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Lastly, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as silky, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Similarly, the KTT Strawberry switch provides a variety of descriptors that highlight its smooth and effortless typing experience. It is described as frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and fluid typing sensation with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Like the G Pro 3.0 Red, it is also referred to as silky, ensuring an exceptionally smooth typing feel. Additionally, the switch is described as buttery, implying a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing experience. Lastly, the Strawberry switch is mentioned to be polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience due to smooth and refined materials or factory lubrication.
Taking into account all the available information, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and KTT Strawberry linear switches offer pleasant and smooth typing experiences. Although the sound profiles differ, with the G Pro 3.0 Red having a neutral sound and the Strawberry having a low-pitched sound, both switches provide low-friction and polished surfaces, ensuring reduced resistance and smooth key travel. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Red or the Strawberry switch, you can expect similar results in terms of overall feel and an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, 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 the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, this switch provides a light actuation force that allows for effortless typing. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser on the G Pro Red allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing. The switch also offers a satisfying auditory experience with its medium-high pitch. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Red is perfect for both beginners and advanced users, whether used at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher actuation force for a more medium feel, the KTT Strawberry linear switch may be the better option for you. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, the Strawberry provides a comfortable typing experience with reliable performance. It features attractive pink and clear housings, which add a touch of visual appeal to your keyboard setup. In terms of sound, the Strawberry produces a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. As for the feel, it offers a range of descriptors such as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, indicating an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Strawberry linear switch comes down to personal preference. Consider factors such as your preferred actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch aligns best with your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a light actuation force or a switch with a medium feel and attractive visual aesthetics, both switches offer their own unique advantages. So, choose the one that will enhance your typing performance and bring you the most satisfaction.