Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two formidable opponents in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Pine offer exceptional features that cater to different preferences. On one hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, captivates gamers with its lightning-fast responsiveness and shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. Not only does it provide a competitive advantage with its exceptional gaming experience, but it also adds an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions through its medium-high pitch. Meanwhile, the Pine, also a linear switch, boasts a medium-heavy and buttery smooth typing experience that effortlessly glides under your fingertips. With its translucent, forest green appearance and polished, factory-lubed finish, these switches offer minimized friction for impeccable key travel. While both switches fall into the categories of 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', and 'Low-pitched', they possess subtle differences that set them apart. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Pine share similar housing materials in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, which is especially beneficial for users looking to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, users can expect similar results from these two switches.
However, there is a notable difference in the bottom housing materials between the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Pine. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a nylon bottom housing, while the Pine utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its polycarbonate top housing. This distinction in bottom housing materials gives each switch a unique sound and feel when pressed down.
When using either the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Pine, the qualities of the housing materials will play a role in different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will primarily impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. The softer nature of nylon or the stiffer nature of polycarbonate will influence the overall effect when keys are fully depressed. On the other hand, the top housing, also polycarbonate in both cases, will have more influence on the sound produced when keys are released. This difference in the impact of housing materials allows for a nuanced and varied typing experience depending on the switch chosen.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, meaning it requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Pine also has an actuation force of 45 grams, resulting in a similar light feel. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Silver requires 50 grams of force, offering a slightly more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Pine switch has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a more pronounced push feel. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the G Pro 3.0 Silver more suitable, as it enables longer typing periods without causing fatigue. Meanwhile, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile feel may gravitate towards the Pine switch's heavier bottom out force. Overall, while the actuation forces are the same for both switches, the differences in bottom out forces offer distinct options for individuals looking to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on either of the keys, you will feel a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and comfortable typing experience with their equal 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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Pine switches offer a deep and rich bassy tone during key presses. This low-pitched sound profile creates a mellow and satisfying auditory experience. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while both switches share similar sound characteristics, the overall sound experience may vary depending on the setup.
In terms of feel, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Pine switches provide a buttery and seamless typing sensation. The switches are engineered to offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, allowing for effortless and uniform typing. The application of lubricant at the factory further enhances the creamy feel of these switches, creating a silky sensation as your fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. This ensures a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Considering all the available information, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KTT Pine switches offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide a bassy sound profile and a buttery typing experience. Therefore, if you're looking for a satisfying auditory element and a smooth keystroke feel, you can expect to achieve similar results with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference or other factors such as price and availability.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers unmatched value and delivers an exceptional gaming experience, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are the way to go. With their light bottom out force of 50 grams and shorter travel distance, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness that gives you a competitive advantage in gaming. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches feature vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch that adds an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switches are an excellent choice. With a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, these switches are buttery smooth, thanks to their polished, factory-lubed finish. Both switches offer a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, which adds depth and richness to your keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and KTT Pine linear switches will depend on whether your focus is gaming performance or typing comfort.
Mentioned in this article
