Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. KTT Grapefruit

Overview

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the KTT Grapefruit are two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches with their own unique characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its budget-friendly excellence and offers a typist a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switches are special and showcase a soft and light typing feel, accompanied by a "baritone" though not yet "bass" deep sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a more resonant and high-pitched quality, the Grapefruit offers a low-pitched and neutral sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Linear

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

$3.41 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the KTT Grapefruit both have polycarbonate top housings. This means that they will offer a similar sound profile - sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. The use of polycarbonate in these housings creates a clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for users who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for those who want to incorporate RGB lighting in their setup. With these similarities, users can expect a comparable experience in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.

Now, let's turn our attention to the bottom housings. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Grapefruit also features a nylon bottom housing. This means that both switches will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a somewhat duller and rounder sound. While the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be primarily influenced by the characteristics of the bottom housing, both switches can be expected to offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and fullness.

In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the KTT Grapefruit share similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. Additionally, both switches utilize nylon bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Although the top and bottom housings may vary in their impact on certain aspects of the switch's sound and feel, users can generally expect comparable results between the two switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Grapefruit's 45 grams, making the Grapefruit lighter when it comes to triggering a keystroke. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Grapefruit's 53 grams, indicating that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel.

Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter switch may appreciate the Grapefruit's lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter weight allows for more extended periods of typing, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Its medium-heavy weight provides a satisfying push feel, enhancing the typing experience.

In terms of similarities, both switches fall under the category of linear switches, meaning there is no tactile bump or audible click during keystrokes. This similarity ensures that users will have a smooth and consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. While the actuation and bottom out forces differ, both switches deliver reliable and responsive keystrokes. Therefore, regardless of the weight preference, users can expect similar results with either the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch or the KTT Grapefruit linear switch.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance traveled for both switches. Whether you opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Grapefruit, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance. It is worth noting that both switches offer a consistent and smooth linear feel, allowing for a seamless typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is known for its high-pitched clacky sound profile. Pressing these switches produces a sharp and crisp sound, which can be quite immersive and clean. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switch offers a different sound experience with its low-pitched tone. These switches have a more bass-heavy and mellow sound profile, though not yet reaching deep bass levels. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles, but if you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow will be your choice. Conversely, if you prefer a lower-pitched and neutral sound, the Grapefruit switch will suit your taste. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.

In terms of feel, both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Grapefruit switches share the same description of being polished. This indicates that both switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The use of high-quality materials and factory lubrication contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel for both switches. As a result, typing on either switch will provide a polished and comfortable feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is additionally described as creamy, offering a buttery and effortless typing sensation akin to gliding your fingers across the keys. Although this specific description is not mentioned for the Grapefruit switch, it is reasonable to expect a similarly smooth and comfortable typing experience due to its polished nature. Overall, both switches offer a refined and enjoyable feel during typing.

Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and KTT Grapefruit linear switches provide distinct subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a high-pitched clacky sound profile and a polished, creamy feel. In contrast, the Grapefruit switch offers a low-pitched sound profile and a polished feel. Both switches excel in their respective qualities, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences. While the specific descriptors for feel are the same, it can be inferred that the typing experience will be similarly smooth and refined for both switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences for sound profiles and the specific typing experience desired.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is the one for you. It offers a higher pitched and clacky sound profile, as well as a fairly bouncy type feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and lighter typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Grapefruit switch is the better choice. It has a "baritone" sound profile and a smoother, more polished feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Linear

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

Learn more

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more