Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and KTT Mallo offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch that boasts an incredibly light actuation force of 38g, making it ideal for delicate typists who prefer effortless and sensitive keystrokes. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo is a tactile switch known for its gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, striking a balance between feedback and smoothness. While the G Pro White provides a satisfying auditory feedback with its medium-high pitch, the Mallo offers a neutral sound signature that blends in various typing environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Mallo switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the keyboard. With similar top housing materials, users can expect comparable sound profiles and visual effects in both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the G Pro 3.0 White uses nylon, while the Mallo also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite the differences in top housing materials, both switches provide a similar typing experience with their nylon bottom housings, offering a consistent sound profile and feel for users.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and KTT Mallo switches have polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, their nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the G Pro 3.0 White's nylon bottom housing or a slightly duller sound with the Mallo, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in weight. The G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Mallo has a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, with the actuation force being unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 White, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Mallo provides a slightly heavier bottom out force, giving a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. Both switches offer a medium amount of travel distance, providing a satisfying tactile feedback when typing. However, it is worth noting that the G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch, while the Mallo is a tactile switch. While both switches have the same travel distance, the feel of typing on each switch may differ due to their respective mechanisms. Ultimately, users can expect comparable results in terms of travel distance when using either switch.
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 Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, both switches offer a neutral and subdued sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound that is not overpowering or disruptive, making them suitable for various typing environments. The G Pro 3.0 White has a clacky sound characteristic, which is sharp and snappy, while the Mallo switch provides a more subtle and gentle sound that is neither dominating nor fading into the background. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience without being overly loud or distracting.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is described as creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides a smooth, light, and gentle typing experience with minimal resistance, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch is described as feathery, mild, stepped, and subtle, offering a similarly light and gentle typing feel with a subtle tactile feedback that is just noticeable enough to provide feedback without being overpowering. Both switches strike a balance between comfort and responsiveness, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch share similarities in their neutral and subdued sound profiles, making them versatile choices for different typing environments. Additionally, both switches offer a light and gentle typing feel that reduces finger fatigue and provides a comfortable typing experience. Whether you prefer a switch with a slightly more pronounced tactile feedback like the Mallo or a smoother linear experience like the G Pro 3.0 White, both options offer quality performance and satisfaction for typists looking for a budget-friendly and reliable switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, your choice will ultimately depend on your preference for typing force and sound feedback. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more clacky sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a more subdued sound profile, the KTT Mallo switch could be more suited to your typing style. Consider your typing preferences and environment when making your decision between these two switches to ensure the best typing experience for yourself.
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