TTC Flame Red vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red. Both switches are linear, meaning they offer a smooth typing experience without the tactile bump found in other types of switches. However, they do have their unique characteristics that may make them more suitable for different needs. If you prioritize the visual aspect of your keyboard, the Flame Reds are the way to go. With their dazzling light diffuser, they are a perfect choice for those who want to showcase their backlit, RGB keyboard. In terms of typing feel, the Flame Reds provide a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro Reds offer a budget-friendly option without compromising on performance. These switches have a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. With its frosted light diffuser, the G Pro Reds allow for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while its medium-high pitch offers a 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 specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Flame Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Therefore, the choice between these two switches depends on the desired sound experience, with the Flame Red delivering a deeper tone and the G Pro 3.0 Red offering a sharper sound.
Regarding the bottom housings, both the Flame Red and the G Pro 3.0 Red incorporate nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, when pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing qualities play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a consistent sound experience between the Flame Red and the G Pro 3.0 Red.
In terms of the overall sound experience, the top housing of a switch plays a crucial role when releasing a key. With the Flame Red employing a nylon top housing and the G Pro 3.0 Red featuring a polycarbonate top housing, the sound profiles will vary. The nylon top housing of the Flame Red will contribute to a smoother and softer sound upon key release, while the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red will create a crisper and more resonant sound. Therefore, depending on the desired sound effect when letting go of a key, users can choose between the mellow tone of the Flame Red or the sharper sound of the G Pro 3.0 Red.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is equal in both cases. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a difference. The Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, which is slightly heavier than the G Pro 3.0 Red's bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Flame Red switch slightly heavier in terms of the force needed to press the key all the way down.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the G Pro 3.0 Red for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. The lighter actuation and bottom out force can provide a more comfortable typing experience over a longer period. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial and stronger push feel may opt for the Flame Red switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force. This can provide a more satisfying and robust typing experience.
In summary, while both the TTC Flame Red and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches have the same actuation force, the Flame Red switch is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. When pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance. Whether you choose the TTC Flame Red or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, you can expect a comfortable and responsive key press with a consistent 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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
When comparing the sound of the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switches, both switches have a neutral sound profile. A neutral switch has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Therefore, with either switch, you can expect a balanced and versatile sound experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flame Red provides a mild typing experience. A mild mechanical keyboard switch offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Flame Red switch is also described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Flame Red switch offers a comfortable and approachable feel suitable for most users.
Similarly, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch also offers a mild typing experience. Additionally, it is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation. This could be due to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch also falls under the descriptor of polished, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. With these combined qualities, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a silky typing feel, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with ease.
Overall, both the TTC Flame Red and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switches share many similarities in terms of sound and feel. They both have a neutral sound profile and provide a mild typing experience. Additionally, they both feature a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Flame Red switch emphasizes weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch focuses on delivering a balance between responsiveness and ease of use with its medium-light actuation force. Whether you choose the Flame Red or the G Pro 3.0 Red, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with a sleek and approachable feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize aesthetics and want a switch that will complement your backlit, RGB keyboard, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is the way to go. With its dazzling light diffuser, you can enjoy vibrant lighting effects that will enhance your typing experience. Additionally, the Flame Red offers a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying feel.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers a smooth typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is the perfect choice. With its frosted light diffuser, you can enjoy brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects. The G Pro 3.0 Red strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use with its medium-light actuation force.
Both switches have a neutral sound profile and offer a mild and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. However, the G Pro 3.0 Red also provides a creamy and silky sensation, giving you an exceptionally smooth typing feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red depends on your priorities. If visual aesthetics are important to you, go for the Flame Red with its dazzling light diffuser. If you're on a budget but still want a satisfying typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red is a great option. Consider your preferences and needs to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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