Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TKC Kiwi are two popular mechanical keyboard switches, each offering a unique typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch, known for its budget-friendly excellence. Typing on these switches produces a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy type feel, offering a delightfully polished and resonant experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch designed to enhance typing with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. These switches provide a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, delivering a truly immersive typing experience. Furthermore, the Kiwi switches are factory lubed, resulting in a smooth and effortless typing experience straight out of the box. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TKC Kiwi differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Kiwi utilizes a UHWMPE top housing. The polycarbonate material of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, creating a clear and resonant sound when typing. In contrast, the UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi offers a bright sound signature, producing resonant clacks when pressing the keys. While both materials contribute to a pleasing auditory experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing may be especially appealing for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucent properties.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Kiwi employs a UHWMPE bottom housing. This difference in material results in variations in the overall sound profile of the switches. The nylon material of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as it absorbs more sound due to its softer nature. Conversely, the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi contributes to its bright sound signature, offering resonant clacks with each keystroke. These distinct sound qualities make the G Pro 3.0 Yellow ideal for those seeking a switch with a more rounded and muffled sound, while the Kiwi appeals to individuals who prefer a vibrant and impactful typing experience.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and TKC Kiwi differ, they each bring unique qualities to the switches. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, depending on the desired sound profile and typing experience, users can choose between the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Kiwi accordingly. However, if a similar sound profile is desired, one can achieve comparable results by selecting switches with similar housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, there are notable similarities and differences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Kiwi's 43 grams. This means that it requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke on the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy.
Considering weight is crucial, as it affects typing experience and endurance. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Kiwi may be the more suitable option as its lower actuation force allows for extended typing periods with minimal strain. This makes it ideal for individuals who use keyboards extensively for work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a slightly heavier actuation, catering to those who crave a more substantial and pronounced keystroke experience. This can offer a satisfactory typing feedback for those who desire a stronger push feel.
Overall, while the actuation forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and TKC Kiwi differ, their shared bottom out force ensures that both switches deliver a similar level of resistance when fully pressed. Therefore, depending on personal preference and typing needs, individuals can choose between the lighter actuation force of the Kiwi or the slightly heavier actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow to achieve their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and TKC Kiwi tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience when pressing down on a key. The travel distance of 4 mm is the distance these switches travel from the top to the bottom, which is the distance that can be felt when using the keyboard. Therefore, whether using the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Kiwi switch, users can expect a consistent travel distance and feel when typing.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches offer a high-pitched clacky sound profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, resulting in an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switches provide a low-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The sound of these switches is more neutral, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use them at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, while the sound profiles of the two switches differ, both provide enjoyable typing experiences with distinct characteristics.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are described as polished and creamy. "Polished" indicates that these switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. "Creamy" refers to the smooth and buttery typing experience these switches offer. This can be attributed to either factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch construction. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switches are characterized as stepped, meaning they have two stages of tactile feedback - some pre-travel and/or post-travel can be felt. They are also referred to as accented switches, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Similar to sound, the feeling of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps, along with user preference.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switches and the TKC Kiwi tactile switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches provide a higher-pitched clacky sound and a polished, creamy feel. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switches offer a low-pitched sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, along with a stepped and accented tactile feel. Both switches contribute to an immersive typing experience, but with different auditory and tactile sensations. If you prefer a higher-pitched sound and smooth key travel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched sound and a more noticeable tactile feedback, the TKC Kiwi switches would suit your preference. Due to their distinct qualities, these switches offer varying typing experiences, allowing users to select the option that aligns with their personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be an excellent choice. These switches offer a bouncy type feel and produce a clacky sound when pressed. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that enhances your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, the TKC Kiwi would be a great option. These switches have a low-pitched, neutral sound profile and deliver a satisfyingly snappy typing experience. Additionally, the Kiwi switches are lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the specific sound profile and typing feel you desire.
Mentioned in this article
