Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Hyacinth, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and advantages for different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro line-up, is renowned for its exceptional gaming performance. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, these linear switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive edge. The vibrant RGB lighting, enhanced by a frosted light diffuser, adds a visually stunning element to any gaming setup, while the medium-high pitch creates an exhilarating auditory experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth switches from KTT stand out for their design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance aimed at avoiding the commonly experienced hard bottoming-out sensation. These linear switches prioritize an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. Additionally, the Hyacinth deviates from the mainstream trend by utilizing a single-stage elongated spring rather than dual-stage, resulting in a more consistent force curve. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Hyacinth both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, its relatively stiffer nature allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically speaking, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful if you plan to use RGB lighting with your switch. Therefore, both switches provide similar sound and light transmission benefits with their polycarbonate top housings.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Hyacinth utilize nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience with their nylon bottom housings, delivering a satisfying and immersive sound when using the keys.
Considering the division of qualities between the top and bottom housings, pressing down on either the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Hyacinth will allow you to experience the effects of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel. The softer and more sound-absorbing nature of the nylon bottom housing contributes to a cushioned and quieter keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the impact of the top housing becomes evident when you release a key, influencing the sound produced as the switch returns to its resting position. Therefore, while the two switches may differ in the specific variations of polycarbonate and nylon used, they provide a comparable division of housing effects in terms of sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches, ensuring a consistent typing experience. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference between the two. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it relatively lighter compared to the Hyacinth, which has a bottom out force of 56 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, particularly for extended periods of time, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver would be an ideal choice. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel might prefer the slightly heavier force provided by the KTT Hyacinth switch. In either case, users can expect consistent results with both switches as they share the same actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Hyacinth a bit shallower in terms of key press feel compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver. The difference of 0.5 mm may not seem significant, but it can actually make a noticeable difference in the overall typing or gaming experience. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth as it allows for faster response times, while those looking for a more hearty depth to their keystrokes might lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Silver with its longer travel distance of 4 mm. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 Silver switches are best described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth switches are described as neutral, providing a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also affected by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches have a more distinct sound profile, the Hyacinth switches offer a more moderate and versatile sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are characterized as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience akin to gliding across the keys effortlessly. Meanwhile, the KTT Hyacinth switches are described as silky and subtle, offering an exceptionally smooth typing sensation with minimal resistance. The Hyacinth switches also maintain a light typing feel and have a subtle sound signature suitable for shared spaces. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, but the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches have a slightly more pronounced and luxurious feel.
Considering the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches excel in providing a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, offering an exhilarating auditory element to gaming sessions. Additionally, these switches offer a buttery and creamy typing experience, ensuring seamless and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth switches prioritize a neutral sound profile and a silky, subtle typing experience, maintaining smoothness and minimizing resistance. Both switches have their unique qualities, providing options for users based on their preferences. While the sound and feel differ slightly between the two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of overall satisfaction and performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that excels in gaming performance, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are a great choice. With a shorter travel distance and a light bottom out force, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness, giving you a competitive advantage in gaming. The vibrant RGB lighting and medium-high pitch also add to the immersive gaming experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a switch that strikes a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, the KTT Hyacinth switches are a solid option. With a slightly heavier bottom out force and a unique design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, these switches avoid the hard bottoming-out experience and offer a more consistent force curve. Additionally, the Hyacinth switches provide a neutral sound profile and a silky typing experience, making them suitable for various purposes and shared spaces. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Hyacinth switches depends on your specific preferences and priorities in terms of gaming performance and typing experience.
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