Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Embark on a gaming odyssey with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, and the KTT Lightning, also a linear switch. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, part of the budget-friendly G Pro line-up, offers unmatched value for gamers. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness, giving players a competitive advantage. The vibrant RGB lighting, enhanced by the frosted light diffuser, illuminates your gaming setup while the medium-high pitch adds an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Lightnings are highly approachable "speed" switches, perfect for situations where milliseconds can decide your win or loss. Typing on them provides a slick type feel with a clacky sound profile. These switches are categorized as clacky, high-pitched, chirpy, subtle, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your gaming needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Lightning both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboard. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from both switches' polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the two switches differ in their bottom housings. The G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Lightning also features a nylon bottom housing. Both switches take advantage of the softness and sound-absorbing properties of nylon to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The resulting typing experience is characterized by a duller and rounder sound, which can appeal to those who prefer a more muted typing sound.
It's important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, which is the sound produced when a key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while both switches share similar qualities in their respective housing materials, their overall typing and sound experiences may still be slightly distinct due to the different contributions of the top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Silver requires 45 grams, while the Lightning requires 43 grams, making it slightly lighter. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that they offer a similar resistance when pressed all the way down.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This makes them suitable for work environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For such users, switches with heavier forces would be ideal.
In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Silver can be considered lighter due to its slightly higher actuation force compared to the Lightning. However, both switches offer the same bottom out force, meaning that regardless of which one is chosen, similar results can be achieved in terms of the overall resistance when fully pressed.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the more traditional option. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a hearty depth to their typing experience. In comparison, the Lightning's 3.0mm travel distance offers a shallower feel, making it more suitable for those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. Despite their differences, both switches provide a satisfactory experience, catering to different preferences. So, depending on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a deeper feel, you can choose the option that suits you best.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are best described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. They produce a satisfying and substantial sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the KTT Lightnings are known for being clacky, high-pitched, and sometimes even chirpy. They produce a sharp and snappy sound, characterized by crisp, bright, and percussive tones. The clacky sound profile sets them apart from other switches. Overall, these two switches offer different sound experiences - the G Pro 3.0 Silver with a deeper and more bass-heavy tone, and the Lightning with a sharp and snappy sound. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are often described as buttery and creamy. They provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. This smoothness can be achieved due to either lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch construction. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, as they melt into each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Lightnings have a more subtle and polished feel. They offer a gentle resistance, providing a light typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. Additionally, these switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer a buttery and creamy typing experience, while the Lightning switches provide a subtle and polished feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches and the KTT Lightnings provide different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches have a bassy and thocky sound, along with a buttery and creamy feel. On the other hand, the Lightning switches produce a clacky and high-pitched sound, and offer a subtle and polished typing feel. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, catering to different preferences. However, it is important to note that individual results may vary depending on factors such as keyboard board, keycaps, and personal typing style. So, while these switches offer distinct qualities, if you are aiming for a similar sound or feel, choosing switches with similar descriptors may help you achieve your desired experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that delivers exceptional gaming performance, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are a great choice. With a shorter travel distance and a bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness and a competitive advantage in gaming. The RGB lighting and medium-high pitch add to the overall gaming experience, making it more immersive and exciting. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches have a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, giving a deeper and richer sound during key presses.
On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and milliseconds can make a difference in your gaming or typing experience, the KTT Lightning switches are a suitable option. These "speed" switches offer a slick type feel and produce a clacky sound when pressed, adding a crisp and bright element to your typing or gaming sessions. The Lightning switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them light and easy to actuate.
Ultimately, your decision between the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Lightning switches will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you value affordability, responsiveness, and a deeper sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed, a clacky sound, and a smooth typing experience, the Lightning switches would be a suitable option. Consider these factors and choose the switch that aligns with your desired experience and usage.
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