Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Semi Mute. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch that is ideal for delicate typists. With an incredibly light actuation force of only 38g, it offers effortless and sensitive keystrokes. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, and the medium-high pitch provides satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is also a linear switch but is designed for those who value a noise-free environment. Despite being called "Semi Mute," these switches operate completely silently, making them perfect for undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions. They feature advanced dampening technology and provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Semi Mute switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in similar sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for users planning to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination. Therefore, users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetic benefits from both switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, there is a notable difference between the G Pro 3.0 White and the Semi Mute. The G Pro 3.0 White employs a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Semi Mute utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Similar to the polycarbonate top housing, this material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Consequently, the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches will differ due to the contrasting properties of nylon and polycarbonate.
Overall, if the top and bottom housings of a switch differ, as is the case with the G Pro 3.0 White and the Semi Mute, the qualities brought by each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing will be more apparent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users may experience a nuanced typing experience depending on the combination of housing materials in their chosen switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, meaning that less force is required to trigger a keystroke compared to the Semi Mute's actuation force of 43 grams. As for the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 White requires 45 grams of force to fully press down, whereas the Semi Mute requires a slightly heavier 58 grams.
Considering weight, the G Pro 3.0 White provides a lighter typing experience, which can be advantageous for those who prefer to type for extended periods of time without experiencing fatigue. This makes it suitable for situations like bringing it to work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Semi Mute offers a slightly stronger push feel with its medium actuation and bottom out forces. This may appeal to individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience.
Overall, the G Pro 3.0 White is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, while the Semi Mute is slightly heavier. However, it is important to note that both switches provide their own unique benefits, and the choice ultimately depends on the personal preference of the user.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 White or the Semi Mute, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. Neither switch offers a shorter or longer travel distance compared to the other.
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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 offers a clacky and medium-high pitch sound when pressed. This produces a crisp, bright, and percussive sound, which adds a satisfying auditory feedback to the typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as muted and quiet. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This is particularly beneficial for those who value a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience. These switches are described as creamy, providing a silky sensation when typing. With a low actuation force of only 38g, these switches are easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate. This offers a comfortable and low-impact typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The G Pro 3.0 White switch is also described as feathery, as it is exceptionally light to press, further reducing strain on the fingers. Similarly, the KTT Semi Mute switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience. It falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of the sound and feel, making it approachable for most users. However, specific details regarding the feel of the Semi Mute switch are not provided.
Taking into account all the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is best known for its light actuation force, creamy and easy-to-press feel, and clacky sound. It offers a premium typing experience without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is tailored for those who prioritize a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing. It provides a muted sound and a mild typing experience.
While the G Pro 3.0 White and KTT Semi Mute switches have different characteristics in terms of sound and feel, they both offer a neutral sound profile and fall within the mild typic experience category. Therefore, if you are seeking a keyboard switch with similar results in terms of sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are a few things to consider.
The G Pro 3.0 White is best suited for those who prefer a budget-friendly option with a light actuation force of only 45 grams. It is designed for delicate typists who desire effortless and sensitive keystrokes. The switch allows for brighter RGB lighting with its frosted light diffuser and offers a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. It provides a premium typing feel without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is ideal for individuals who prioritize a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions. It features advanced dampening technology and completely silent operation, despite its name. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, it offers a medium actuation force. The Semi Mute switch provides a comfortable and gratifying typing feel for those who value a quieter keyboard experience.
In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a clacky and neutral sound profile, which produces a crisp and bright sound when pressed. It is not completely silent, but it provides a more subdued sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch is described as muted and neutral, producing a softer and quieter sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle typing experience. The switch provides a smooth and buttery sensation, requires minimal force to activate, and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Semi Mute switch, on the other hand, offers a buttery and mild typing experience, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the KTT Semi Mute switch depends on your preferences. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with light actuation force and a brighter sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 White would be a suitable choice. However, if you value a noise-free environment and a quieter keyboard experience, the KTT Semi Mute switch is an excellent option. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and budget to make an informed decision.
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