Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the KTT Grapefruit both offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavy linear switch design, providing a more substantial typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. The medium-high pitch auditory feedback and vibrant RGB lighting effects make it appealing to those looking for a tactile and visually striking keyboard. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switches offer a softer and lighter typing feel with a distinctive "baritone" sound profile. This makes them ideal for users seeking a more muted and refined typing experience. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preferences and typing style; 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which provides a high-pitched, yet satisfyingly clacky sound profile. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, crisper sound profile. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit is known for being stiffer and more resonant, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a POM bottom housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. In comparison, the Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and rounder sound, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This difference in bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch, with the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a unique and pleasing sound, while the Grapefruit provides a classic typing experience with deeper tones.
While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and KTT Grapefruit may vary in their housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences. The split between the POM bottom housing and INK blend top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a balance between deeper and higher-pitched sounds. Similarly, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Grapefruit offers a blend of sharpness and fullness in sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we see clear differences in weight. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Grapefruit switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the KTT Grapefruit, while those seeking a firmer feel may gravitate towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and response when using either of these switches. Overall, both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience with their identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black 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 Black for $2.77.
The KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offers a clacky and moderately high-pitched typing experience, which provides a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch produces a low-pitched sound that is described as baritone, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The G Pro 3.0 Black switch gives a more distinct and vibrant auditory feedback, while the Grapefruit switch provides a deeper and more subtle sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with a medium-heavy feel. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit switch is described as polished, providing a refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a light and smooth typing feel, but the G Pro 3.0 Black switch leans towards a more substantial and weighted key press, while the Grapefruit switch emphasizes a softer and lighter touch.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound and a creamy, silky typing feel with a medium-heavy actuation force. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a low-pitched, baritone sound and a polished typing feel that ensures smooth key travel. Depending on personal preference, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch may suit those who prefer a more substantial and vibrant typing experience, while the Grapefruit switch appeals to users looking for a softer and smoother touch. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and a unique typing experience despite their differences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a balanced feel and a medium-high pitch sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 Black would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and lighter typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Grapefruit switch may be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision.
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