Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Phalaenopsis. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch, perfect for those who prefer a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. With an incredibly light actuation force of only 38g, these switches offer effortless and sensitive typing, making it ideal for delicate typists. Its frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump with its 50g tactile force. It features beautiful translucent switches and a light actuation force of 37g, minimizing finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. While the G Pro 3.0 White offers a budget-friendly option with a premium typing feel, the Phalaenopsis provides a delightful tactile experience. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches are both made of polycarbonate for the top housing. This means that both switches will have a similar sound profile, characterized by sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sounds. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing. However, it is worth noting that the G Pro 3.0 White's top housing is translucent, enhancing the aesthetics when combined with RGB lighting.
Where these two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, creating a typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis features a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. As a relatively stiffer plastic, the polycarbonate material leads to a clear and resonant sound profile. Thus, the bottom housing material contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys of the switches.
In summary, while both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, their bottom housing materials differ. The G Pro 3.0 White with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phalaenopsis with its polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Despite these distinctions, both switches excel in their respective sound profiles and offer a consistent experience when using RGB lighting.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is clear 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 Phalaenopsis has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a lighter experience, making them suitable for extended periods of typing or gaming. However, if one prefers a slightly stronger push feel, the Phalaenopsis offers a slightly higher bottom out force. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have similar travel distances of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on the keys of both switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches provide a consistent tactile experience for users, allowing for precise and comfortable typing or gaming. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 White or the Phalaenopsis, you can expect a smooth and satisfying key press with a travel distance of 4 mm.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound when pressed, suitable for both beginners and advanced users, as well as for home or work settings. The sound of the G Pro 3.0 switch can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, providing a clacky experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy sound profile, characterized by a deeper and richer tone during key presses. This switch produces a lower frequency range sound, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as thocky, resulting in a deep, satisfying "thud" or soft "knock" sound when the key is pressed and released.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch provides a variety of options. It is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This switch allows for effortless typing, as if gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. It is also easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This light actuation force makes typing comfortable and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The G Pro 3.0 switch can also be described as feathery and mild, as it is exceptionally light to press and offers a gentle typing experience overall. Moreover, it provides a silky sensation, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped. This means that it has a mild tactile feedback, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. It offers a discernible tactile bump, ensuring that each keystroke provides a delightful and satisfying experience.
Overall, based on the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 White provides a clacky and neutral experience, while the Phalaenopsis offers a bassy and thocky sound. When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, and silky typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis is known for its stepped tactile feedback. Both switches have light actuation forces, with the G Pro 3.0 White at 38g and the Phalaenopsis at 37g, ensuring effortless typing and minimizing finger fatigue. However, it's important to note that the final sound and feel of the switches can also depend on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Nevertheless, with the information provided, users can expect a satisfying and premium typing experience with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and KTT Phalaenopsis switches, tailored to their specific preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are a delicate typist looking for a budget-friendly option with a light actuation force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be a suitable choice for you. With an actuation force of only 45 grams, this switch provides effortless and sensitive keystrokes. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, and its medium-high pitch offers a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize effortless typing and minimizing finger fatigue, especially during prolonged typing sessions, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be a great option. With a light actuation force of 50 grams and a discernible tactile bump, each keystroke will be a delightful experience. Moreover, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a stepped tactile feel, providing a more mild and nuanced typing experience compared to hypersensitive switches. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as your specific typing needs and preferences.
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