KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown. The Cream Yellow switch is best known for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. Additionally, the lengthened spring of the Cream Yellow switch offers a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is part of Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series and offers an economical solution without compromising on quality. This switch provides a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, carefully crafted to provide a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow. It also features a frosted light diffuser, ensuring your RGB lighting shines brighter for an immersive visual experience. With a medium-high pitch, the G Pro Brown delivers satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown both have polycarbonate top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. In addition, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic features from both the Cream Yellow and the G Pro 3.0 Brown.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Cream Yellow features a nylon material, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches benefit from this characteristic, providing a satisfying typing experience with a rich and pronounced sound when pressing down on the keys.

Although the top and bottom housings are different for these switches, they still contribute to the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. In contrast, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Cream Yellow and the G Pro 3.0 Brown may have different bottom housings, users will experience similar sound characteristics during typing and releasing actions due to their shared polycarbonate top housings.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, a noticeable difference can be observed. The Cream Yellow has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Both fall under the medium category, providing a satisfying push feel during typing. In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 58 grams, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Brown exerts a slightly higher 63 grams of force. This indicates that the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a heavier bottom out feel compared to the Cream Yellow. Therefore, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Cream Yellow, as its actuation force is lighter. On the other hand, those searching for a more substantial typing experience might find the G Pro 3.0 Brown with its heavier bottom out force to be a better fit. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches allow users to choose the option that aligns with their desired typing preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, it is evident that they have different distances. The Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the G Pro 3.0 Brown falls into the more common range with its 4 mm travel distance, whereas the Cream Yellow falls on the shallower end with its 3.5 mm distance. However, the trend of shorter travel distances has gained popularity, particularly among gamers who prefer faster response times. In this case, the Cream Yellow would be the preferred choice for those seeking a more responsive keystroke. On the other hand, individuals who appreciate a deeper key press might find the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Brown more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cream Yellow switch stands out with its distinctively clacky nature. This switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, resulting in a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch's sound is not specifically mentioned, so its sound profile is unknown. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch offers a bouncy typing experience. This switch provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and a satisfying rebound when pressed. On the contrary, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is described as easy-to-press. These switches offer gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is also described as having a mild feeling, meaning it offers a gentle typing experience that stands in a safe, middle-ground zone. It is also mentioned that these switches may have a stepped feel, indicating some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.

In conclusion, the Cream Yellow and G Pro 3.0 Brown switches offer different subjective qualities. The Cream Yellow excels in providing a clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel with its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, with its gentle bump and low-impact feel. While the specific sound profile of the G Pro 3.0 Brown is not mentioned, it is still a reliable and budget-friendly option that won't compromise on quality. Whether you prefer a clacky and bouncy experience or an easy-to-press and mild feel, both switches provide unique characteristics that can enhance your typing sessions. Keep in mind that individual preferences, as well as other factors like keyboard and keycap choices, can also influence the overall typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a distinctively clacky sound and a uniquely bouncy typing feel, then the Cream Yellow switch is the right choice for you. Its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem deliver a crisp and bright sound, creating a satisfying auditory feedback. Additionally, the lengthened spring provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving you a lively and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle and effortless typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is a great option. With its easy-to-press keys and low actuation force, it reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The mild and stepped characteristics of the G Pro 3.0 Brown offer a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Furthermore, the G Pro Brown adds an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions with its frosted light diffuser, creating an immersive visual experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Cream Yellow and G Pro 3.0 Brown switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more