Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Lightning, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features for different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 White, a linear switch, is best suited for delicate typists who appreciate a light actuation force of only 38g. This ensures effortless and sensitive keystrokes, making it ideal for those who require smooth and easy-to-press keys. With a frosted light diffuser, this switch also allows for brighter RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to your keyboard setup. On the other hand, the Lightning, also a linear switch, is perfect for those who value speed and precision. Designed with milliseconds in mind, it offers a slick type feel that enhances your typing speed, making it an excellent choice for competitive gamers. Additionally, the Lightning's clacky sound profile provides a satisfying auditory feedback, adding a touch of excitement to your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Lightning both feature polycarbonate top housing materials. Polycarbonate is known for creating 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 is especially advantageous for users who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through in a visually appealing way. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in their top housing, users can expect similar sound characteristics and the ability to showcase vibrant lighting effects.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 White utilizes nylon, while the Lightning also utilizes nylon. Nylon is a popular choice for switch housing due to its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is relatively softer compared to harder plastics, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. Both the G Pro 3.0 White and the Lightning, with their nylon bottom housing, will provide users with a typing experience characterized by a satisfying sound with a deeper tone.
It is important to note that the qualities of the bottom and top housings will have different impacts on the overall feel and sound of a switch. When pressing down on the switch, users will feel the qualities of the bottom housing, which greatly influences the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound produced when a key is released. This distinction allows users to appreciate the nuances of both switches, as the bottom housing creates the initial impact while the top housing contributes to the sound after releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively light forces. The G Pro 3.0 White has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lightning has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches offer a lighter typing experience compared to switches with heavier forces. This lower actuation and bottom out force allows for a smoother and faster keystroke, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming periods. However, if a more substantial typing experience is preferred with a stronger push feel, both switches provide a slight difference in force, with the Lightning being slightly heavier. Ultimately, those who prioritize a lightweight typing experience may find the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White or the KTT Lightning to be suitable options, while those seeking a more substantial feel may lean towards the Lightning switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 3 mm. The G Pro 3.0 White has a longer travel distance, making it more traditional in terms of key press feel. On the other hand, the Lightning has a shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive keyboard, the Lightning would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a deeper key press feel, the G Pro 3.0 White would be the option to go for. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White 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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Lightning switches share the descriptor of being clacky. Clacky switches produce a sharp and snappy sound, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. The G Pro 3.0 White switch also has a medium-high pitch, providing a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Lightning switch is described as having a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Additionally, the Lightning switch has a unique acoustic signature described as chirpy, adding a little squeak to its sound. Overall, if you prefer a clacky sound profile, both switches will provide similar results, although the Lightning switch may have a slightly higher pitch and added chirpiness.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a variety of descriptors. It is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. It is also described as easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue. The G Pro 3.0 White switch is also described as feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. It is also described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience with qualities that stand in a safe, middle-ground zone. Lastly, the G Pro 3.0 White switch is described as silky and subtle, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance and a gentle typing feel suitable for shared spaces.
As for the KTT Lightning switch, the only provided descriptor is subtle, which indicates a gentle resistance that is not feather-light but still maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the sound signature of the Lightning switch is described as not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. While there may not be as much information provided about the feel of the Lightning switch, it can be inferred that it offers a subtle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, similar to a polished switch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and KTT Lightning switches share the descriptor of being clacky in terms of sound. While the G Pro 3.0 White switch has a medium-high pitch, the Lightning switch has a high-pitched sound profile with added chirpiness. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle typing experience, while the Lightning switch is described as subtle with a polished finish. While there may be some differences in their sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide a budget-friendly option for typists and offer an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're a delicate typist looking for a budget-friendly option, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be an excellent choice. With an incredibly light actuation force of only 38g, you'll experience effortless and sensitive keystrokes. The frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, and the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback. This switch offers a premium typing feel without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and need switches that can make a difference in milliseconds, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be the way to go. These "speed" switches offer a slick type feel, perfect for competitive gaming or any situation where quick response times are crucial. The clacky sound profile adds to the overall experience.
In terms of sound, both switches offer a clacky sound when pressed. However, if you prefer a more neutral or subdued sound, the G Pro 3.0 White would be the better choice. The Lightning, on the other hand, produces a high-pitched and chirpy sound that sets it apart.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 White provides a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, or subtle typing experience, depending on your preference. These switches are designed to minimize finger fatigue and enhance the overall smoothness of your typing. The Lightning, on the other hand, offers a subtle typing feel with a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Lightning switches depends on your typing style, preferences, and specific needs. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel to make an informed decision that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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