Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Mannan Pipefish. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is known for its exceptional value and gaming prowess. With a shorter travel distance and lightning-fast responsiveness, these switches give gamers a competitive advantage. Not only do they offer vibrant RGB lighting and an exhilarating auditory experience, but they also don't break the bank. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish, also a linear switch, is perfect for casual typists seeking a strain-free typing experience. Its smooth linear action, comfortable spring, and light actuation force provide effortless and enjoyable typing sessions. With its polished feel and easy-to-press keys, the Mannan Pipefish is a popular choice for those who prioritize comfort and precision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Mannan Pipefish both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a similar outcome for both switches, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, making it a desirable material for those who prioritize aesthetics and customization options.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches opt for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housing. Therefore, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Mannan Pipefish offer a similar typing experience with regards to the sound and feel produced by the bottom-out action.
However, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles in influencing the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing has more influence on the sound when a key is released. This means that despite having similar top and bottom housings, differences in other aspects of the switches, such as stem and spring design, could still result in variations in their overall performance and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it relatively light. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, also falling into the light category. Both switches offer a lighter typing experience, which is beneficial for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke and prolonged typing sessions. The actuation force determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, and in this case, the Mannan Pipefish requires less pressure than the G Pro 3.0 Silver. However, both switches have a relatively light bottom out force, indicating that they provide a similar level of resistance when fully pressed. Ultimately, for individuals who prioritize weight, both options offer a lighter typing experience, while users who desire a stronger push feel may opt for alternative options with heavier forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that they both provide the same distance that you will feel when you press down on a key. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Mannan Pipefish, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Mannan Pipefish has an MSRP of $3.53 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mannan Pipefish for $3.05.
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 linear switch is best described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky. It offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The low-pitched nature of these switches adds a mellow tone to the sound. When pressed and released, the G Pro 3.0 Silver emits a deep "thock" or a soft "knock" sound. On the other hand, the sound profile of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is described as neutral. While it doesn't have any specific characteristics such as being bassy or low-pitched, it offers a moderate sound profile suitable for a wide range of users and purposes.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is buttery and creamy. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Typing on a creamy switch feels silky, as if gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is described as easy-to-press and polished. It offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches provides a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Silver excels in providing a bassy and thocky sound, along with a buttery and creamy typing experience. These switches are well-suited for gamers looking for a rich auditory element and a smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press and polished typing feel. These switches are ideal for casual typists seeking a comfortable and precise typing experience. While the two switches may differ in subjective qualities, both can provide enjoyable keyboarding experiences depending on the user's preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are a gamer looking for a budget-friendly and high-performance switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams and shorter travel distance, these switches offer lightning-fast responsiveness, giving you a competitive advantage in gaming. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. In terms of feel, these switches provide a buttery and creamy typing experience, ensuring a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation.
On the other hand, if you are a casual typist seeking a comfortable and strain-free typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 45 grams and easy-to-press nature, these switches offer gentle resistance during key presses, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing overall typing comfort. The Mannan Pipefish switch is also described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch depends on your specific needs and preferences. If gaming performance and an exhilarating auditory experience are your priorities, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the way to go. However, if typing comfort and a strain-free experience are what you value most, the Mannan Pipefish switch is the perfect fit. Consider your priorities and choose the switch that aligns best with your requirements. Happy typing or gaming!
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