Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the KTT Orange are two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, each boasting unique features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is widely recognized as a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality. With its polished and high-pitched sound profile, as well as its fairly bouncy type feel, typing enthusiasts will appreciate the satisfying feedback it offers. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches provide a different typing experience with their bouncy type feel and low-pitched sound profile. Their slick, frictionless typing experience, thanks to the factory-lubing and unique construction materials, adds to the smoothness of key travel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and KTT Orange both feature polycarbonate top housing material. This choice of material creates a similar sound profile for both switches, with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the material's translucency allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it visually appealing for those who enjoy customizable lighting effects on their keyboards. Therefore, users can expect to experience a similar sound and aesthetic experience with both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes nylon while the KTT Orange uses polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a relatively softer plastic, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT Orange maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with this material. With its stiffer nature, polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound.
When it comes to the tactile experience, the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials split in their impact on the switch. Pressing down on the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, for example, will emphasize the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material will have a stronger influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, users can consider both the top and bottom housing materials when selecting a switch that aligns with their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the KTT Orange's 46 grams, making the G Pro 3.0 Yellow slightly heavier in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow again has a higher force of 67 grams compared to the KTT Orange's 53 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires a stronger push and provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. In contrast, the KTT Orange offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, which may be preferable for those who prefer a lighter touch and aim to type for longer periods without fatigue. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the KTT Orange have different force requirements, they both offer a medium level of responsiveness, ensuring that users can achieve accurate and efficient keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered the most traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Orange switch the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel when pressing down on a key. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance as it can result in faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial and deep key press, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch with its 4 mm travel distance may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 switch produces a higher-pitched clacky sound profile. This creates a sharp and crisp sound when typing, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch has a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. However, it's important to note that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is a great choice, while the KTT Orange switch offers a low-pitched sound profile.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch has a polished and creamy typing experience. It features a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The switch may also be factory-lubed, further enhancing its creamy sensation. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each keystroke melting into a silky sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch provides a bouncy feel with spring-like feedback. The keys have a lively rebound when pressed, giving a sense of energy to your typing experience. Additionally, these switches offer a frictionless feel, ensuring an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. Overall, if you prefer a polished and creamy typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is an excellent choice, while the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch has a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a polished, creamy feel. It provides a sharp and immersive auditory experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch has a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It provides a bouncy feel with spring-like feedback, along with a frictionless typing experience. Depending on your preferences, you can choose the switch that suits your desired sound and feel. However, it's important to keep in mind that individual results may vary based on your choice of board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is an excellent choice. It is best known for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, which provides a sharp and crisp auditory experience. Additionally, its polished and creamy feel ensures a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a bouncy type feel, the KTT Orange Switches are a great option. These switches offer a low-pitched sound profile, giving you a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The bouncy and frictionless feel of the Orange switches provides a spring-like feedback sensation and an extremely smooth typing experience with minimal resistance or friction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the KTT Orange switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider your personal preferences and prioritize what matters most to you in terms of typing experience. Whether you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and a high-pitched sound profile with a polished and creamy feel, or a medium-light bottom out force with a low-pitched sound profile and a bouncy, frictionless feel, both switches offer their unique advantages. Therefore, make your selection based on your desired typing experience and enjoy the benefits of these mechanical keyboard switches.
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