KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
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 Red. The Cream Yellow switch stands out for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. Additionally, its lengthened spring contributes to a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a budget-friendly linear switch that delivers a smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Furthermore, the G Pro Red features a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects. Its medium-high pitch adds to the satisfying auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red share similar housing materials, with both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it especially advantageous for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Therefore, users can expect comparable sound and visual experiences when using either switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon material, while the G Pro 3.0 Red also employs nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a well-established switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer composition allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Both switches benefit from these acoustic qualities, enhancing the typing experience for users.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials on the switches, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ, the characteristics of each housing material will be divided between the two parts. While the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, users may perceive variations in these aspects between the Cream Yellow and G Pro 3.0 Red due to their different top housing materials, despite sharing similarities in other housing components.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is clear that the Cream Yellow is slightly heavier in both aspects. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be the ideal choice. This lighter weight allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. However, for those who desire a more substantial push feel, the slightly heavier Cream Yellow would provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience. It is worth mentioning that despite the differences in weight between the two switches, both will ultimately deliver similar results in terms of keystroke functionality.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch differ slightly. The Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Red has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while 3.0 mm is shallower. However, shorter travel distances are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Cream Yellow with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some people might find shorter travel distances too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance like the G Pro 3.0 Red for a more satisfying keystroke feel. Ultimately, it depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Red for $2.77.
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
The Cream Yellow switch is best known for its distinctively clacky sound. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch has a more neutral sound profile. It falls in the middle ground, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes. It neither has an overly loud or quiet sound, making it a versatile choice for both beginners and advanced users, whether they are using it at home or in a work environment. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is described as bouncy. It provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation when pressed, giving the keys a lively feel. This bounciness adds a unique tactile experience to typing. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky. These descriptors indicate that the switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience. It has a refined finish and reduced friction, resulting in a sleek and effortless typing feel. The keys glide with ease, providing a silky sensation to each keystroke. This switch falls into a safe and approachable middle-ground zone, making it suitable for most users.
In conclusion, the Cream Yellow and G Pro 3.0 Red switches offer different subjective qualities. The Cream Yellow switch stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, providing a distinct auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a more neutral sound and a smooth, creamy, and silky feel. It strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking a pleasant typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you value a unique auditory experience and a bouncy typing feel, then the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its distinctive clacky sound and the resonant audio feedback provided by the shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, typing on the Cream Yellow switch will be a delight. Additionally, the lengthened spring contributes to the bouncy typing feel, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience without sacrificing the quality of sound and feel, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is the one for you. Its creamy, mild, polished, and silky characteristics ensure that typing on this switch will be a silky-smooth experience, with reduced friction and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The medium-light actuation force strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making it suitable for beginners and advanced users alike.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red comes down to your personal preferences. Consider whether you prioritize a unique clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, or if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with various qualities such as creaminess, mildness, polish, and silkiness. Both switches offer their own distinct advantages, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences. Happy typing!
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