Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch that exemplifies budget-friendly excellence in the world of mechanical keyboards. It offers a satisfying typing experience with a higher pitched, clacky sound profile and a bouncy type feel. With its polished and resonant characteristics, this switch adds a touch of creaminess to every keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth, also a linear switch, stands out for its unique design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance. This decision aims to eliminate the uncomfortable experience of hard bottoming-out that is often found in switches with longer stems. The Hyacinth is categorized by its neutral and silky attributes, providing a subtle tactile feedback and an enjoyable auditory experience. In addition, the Hyacinth deviates from the mainstream trend of utilizing dual-stage elongated springs, opting instead for a single-stage elongated spring to achieve a more consistent force curve. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best choice for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the KTT Hyacinth both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing materials. This allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing on the switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting, as it allows for better light diffusion. Therefore, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics due to the use of polycarbonate in their top housings.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Hyacinth use nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches offer a similar typing experience due to the use of nylon in their bottom housings.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings each bring different qualities to the overall experience of a switch. When pressing down on either the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Hyacinth, the qualities of the bottom housing, such as sound and feel, will be prominent. On the other hand, the impact on sound when releasing a key will be mainly influenced by the top housing. Therefore, while the housing materials may be the same for these switches, the different distribution of these materials between the top and bottom housings can result in variations in the overall sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, we can observe some notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, slightly heavier than the Hyacinth's actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke compared to the Hyacinth. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier force with 67 grams, while the Hyacinth is lighter, measuring at 56 grams.
Considering the weight factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Hyacinth switch, as its lighter actuation force allows for less effort during longer typing sessions. This can be particularly beneficial when using the keyboard extensively at work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy the feeling of a stronger push may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This can provide a sense of satisfaction and a more deliberate typing experience.
Although the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and KTT Hyacinth switches have differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, both can deliver comparable results depending on personal preferences. If a lighter switch is desired, the Hyacinth with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces would be a suitable choice. However, if a heavier switch is preferred, providing a more substantial and deliberate typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be the ideal option.
Travel distance
Two linear switches, namely the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the KTT Hyacinth, exhibit different travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Hyacinth has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, providing a satisfying depth when pressed down. On the other hand, the Hyacinth offers a shallower travel distance, which is increasingly favored by gamers seeking quicker response times. Therefore, those who prioritize responsiveness may find the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth more suitable. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming might opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 Yellow linear switch is best known for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile. When typing on these switches, you can expect a sharp and crisp sound that is immersive and clean. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound with no extreme characteristics. The sound produced by the Hyacinth switch is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using it at home or work. 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. However, based on the information provided, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a higher-pitched and resonant sound, while the Hyacinth provides a neutral sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is described as polished and creamy. This indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish which results in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel make typing on these switches effortless and enjoyable. The Hyacinth switch, on the other hand, is described as silky and subtle. A silky switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The subtle resistance of the Hyacinth switch provides a light typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch offers a polished and creamy typing experience, while the Hyacinth switch provides a silky and subtle feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is a budget-friendly option that offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, as well as a polished and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch stands out for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, which avoids the hard bottoming-out experience common with switches with longer stems. The Hyacinth switch also deviates from the mainstream trend by using a single-stage elongated spring for a more consistent force curve. It provides a neutral sound profile and a silky and subtle typing feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities and depending on individual preferences, either option can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are someone who prefers a budget-friendly option with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a higher-pitched clacky sound profile, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch may be the right choice for you. These switches offer a polished and creamy feel, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a design that aims to strike a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, then the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is worth considering. With a medium-light bottom out force and a 3.5mm travel distance, the Hyacinth switches provide a neutral sound profile and a silky typing feel. The choice of a single-stage elongated spring also ensures a consistent force curve.
Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider whether you prefer a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile or a more neutral sound, as well as whether you prefer a polished and creamy feel or a silky and subtle typing experience. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and find the switch that best suits your needs.
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