Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream both offer unique features for different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly linear switch that provides a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force. It boasts vibrant RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience with its medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream from KTT stands out with its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the innovative use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. It delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. Each switch has its own set of characteristics to appeal to different users, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that resonates clearly. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream uses a proprietary KTT blend top housing, which also produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both switches aim for a distinct sound, the materials used in their top housings contribute to different nuances in the overall typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a nylon material known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream features a POK bottom housing, which is exceptionally strong and durable with smooth properties that contribute to a clacky typing experience. While both switches prioritize durability, their bottom housing materials affect the overall sound and feel in unique ways, catering to different preferences in typing feedback.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches plays a significant role in shaping their sound profiles and typing experiences. While the G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, the Vanilla Ice Cream's KTT blend top housing lends itself to a distinctive clacky sound signature. Similarly, the different bottom housing materials in these switches contribute to the overall typing experience by providing varying levels of sound absorption, durability, and smoothness. Whether a user prefers a sharper sound profile or a clacky typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall in the lighter weight category. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Users who prefer a lighter actuation force may find either of these switches suitable for their needs. However, for those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be the slightly heavier option compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience for users looking for a lighter touch.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, we can see that the G Pro 3.0 Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a longer travel distance than the Vanilla Ice Cream. The difference may seem small, but it can affect the typing experience significantly. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more traditional typing feel may opt for the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Red. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences in terms of travel distance.
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 Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 offers a neutral profile that is suitable for most users, providing a moderate sound profile that can be used in various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound signature, offering a unique auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches in the market.
In terms of feel, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky, providing a silky sensation that enhances the overall typing feel. Similarly, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is characterized as buttery and creamy, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation that is akin to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches differ in their sound profiles, both switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience that is sure to please enthusiasts looking for a satisfying tactile feel. Whether you opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red with its neutral sound profile or the Vanilla Ice Cream switch with its high-pitched and resonant sound, you can expect similar results in terms of typing comfort and performance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth typing experience with a balanced actuation force, vibrant RGB lighting effects, and a medium-high pitch sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a creamy and buttery feel, a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, and are willing to invest a little more for a unique typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and budget constraints.
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