Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the KTT Mallo mechanical keyboard switches, you are faced with a choice between linear and tactile switches. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch known for its budget-friendly excellence, offering a polished and high-pitched typing experience with a bouncy feel. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo is a tactile switch that excels in subtlety and finesse, providing a gentle tactility with a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a more pronounced and resonant typing experience, the Mallo strikes a balanced chord with its subdued and subtle feedback. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the KTT Mallo, both switches feature polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches.
While both switches share similar housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Mallo may differ in how these materials impact the overall typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the switches may lead to a more resonant sound when typing, while the softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller sound profile. These differences in material composition can affect the sound and feel of the switches when typing, with the top housing influencing the sound upon key release and the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and KTT Mallo switches demonstrates a focus on creating a specific sound profile for users. The combination of stiffer polycarbonate and softer nylon allows for a balance of sharp, clear sounds with deeper, fuller tones when typing. While the switches share similar housing materials, the subtle differences in how these materials are utilized in the switches may influence the overall typing experience, providing users with options to cater to their sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, we see that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Mallo's unknown actuation force. However, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Mallo has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier key press, while the Mallo offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is an important factor to consider based on personal preference, with lighter switches being better for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more pronounced tactile feel. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on individual typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a similar keypress experience in terms of the distance the keys travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Mallo, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key travel distance. This makes them both great options for users who prefer a consistent keypress experience.
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 Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
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 linear switch offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, producing sharp and crisp sounds when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile, offering a dampened and subtle typing experience that is suitable for various environments. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow being more bright and clacky in sound, while the Mallo is more understated and versatile.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch boasts a polished and creamy typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. Conversely, the KTT Mallo switch provides a feathery and mild typing experience, offering light actuation and gentle tactile feedback. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch focuses on a sleek and buttery sensation, while the Mallo switch emphasizes comfort and approachable qualities. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing feel, catering to different preferences for typing dynamics.
Overall, when comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that they offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is characterized by its higher-pitched and bouncy sound profile, along with a polished and creamy typing feel. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo showcases a more neutral and subdued sound profile, with a feathery and mild typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths and cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve a satisfying typing experience based on their individual preferences. While the subjective qualities may vary between the switches, users can expect similar levels of quality and performance from both options.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the way to go. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium-light typing feel with gentle tactility, a neutral sound profile, and a versatile switch suitable for various environments, the Mallo is the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking.
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