TTC Flaming Pink vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red provide two excellent yet distinct options for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience. The Flaming Pink stands out with its silky feel and responsive action, coupled with a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances both gaming and everyday typing experiences. Its sound profile leans towards clackiness, delivering a premium auditory experience that many users appreciate. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is known for its budget-friendly yet polished linear switch with a medium-light actuation force that balances responsiveness and ease of use. Its frosted light diffuser not only enhances RGB lighting effects but also complements its creamy sound profile that offers a milder auditory experience. While both switches provide smooth typing, the Flaming Pink caters more to those who prefer a slightly more pronounced auditory feedback, while the G Pro 3.0 Red appeals to users looking for a neutral and polished option without a hefty price tag. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Pink and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red both feature polycarbonate for their top housing, making their sound profiles notably similar. Polycarbonate, as a stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience, leading to a clear and resonant sound. This material's translucency not only enhances sound quality but is also beneficial for users who plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to illuminate through the housing effectively. Since both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top housing, users can expect a comparable performance when it comes to sound aspects, particularly during actuation and release.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon, another common material used in switch designs. Nylon's characteristics produce a sound profile that is deeper and fuller because it is softer than polycarbonate. This material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience, which adds an interesting juxtaposition to the sharper sound provided by the polycarbonate top. Because the two switches share the same nylon bottom housing, they will similarly provide a more rounded sound quality during key presses and bottoming out, contributing to an overall unique typing feel.
The combination of these materials sets the TTC Flaming Pink and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red apart from other switches. While they both share the polycarbonate top housing, yielding a consistent high-pitched resonance, they also showcase how the nylon bottom housing modifies the sound and feel. The split characteristics of these housings mean that when users press down on keys, they can experience the full depth of the nylon while also enjoying the crisp release provided by the polycarbonate. Ultimately, this dynamic between top and bottom housings results in a distinctly enjoyable typing experience that appeals to a wide range of keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, we notice some similarities and a slight difference in actuation force. Both switches have a bottom-out force of 50 grams, indicating they provide the same resistance when pressed fully down. However, the actuation forces differ slightly, with the Flaming Pink requiring 43 grams to trigger a keystroke, making it lighter than the G Pro 3.0 Red, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. This difference means that users seeking a switch that requires less force to activate will prefer the TTC Flaming Pink, as it allows for prolonged typing with less fatigue. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing may gravitate toward the G Pro 3.0 Red due to its slightly heavier actuation. While both choices are generally categorized as light, the Flaming Pink offers a marginal advantage for those prioritizing ease of activation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, the Flaming Pink measures 3.6 mm while the G Pro 3.0 Red has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Flaming Pink the shorter switch, appealing to gamers or users seeking faster response times, as shorter travel distances typically provide more rapid actuation. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red, with its 4 mm travel distance, offers a more traditional and hearty feel, which some users may prefer for comfort and depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth, with the Flaming Pink catering to those who enjoy quicker actuation and the G Pro 3.0 Red appealing to those who favor a more substantial typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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 it comes to sound, the TTC Flaming Pink switch produces a bright yet not overly loud auditory experience, characterized by a satisfying bottom-out sound that adds a premium feel to the typing experience. Its clacky nature offers a crisp and percussive sound when pressed, which many might find pleasing, especially in a gaming environment. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch has a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings. The moderate sound level ensures that it won’t disrupt others nearby, while still providing a satisfying auditory feedback for those who enjoy the tactile response of pressing a key. However, it’s essential to remember that the sound produced can be affected by the choice of keyboard and keycap materials.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Pink switch provides a silky typing experience that enhances overall smoothness, minimizing resistance during key presses and releases. This tactile quality makes it appealing for users who prioritize an exceptionally fluid keystroke. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a creamy sensation, frequently due to possible factory lubrication, which leads to a smooth and buttery typing feel. Users can glide their fingers effortlessly across the keys, enjoying a mild typing experience that falls into a safe middle ground. Additionally, the polished nature of the G Pro Red enhances the typing experience by reducing friction, making for a delightful keystroke that could appeal to many typists and gamers alike.
Considering all available information, the TTC Flaming Pink and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches cater to users seeking distinct qualities in their typing experience. While the Flaming Pink draws users in with its clacky sound profile and exceptionally silky feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a versatile and neutral audio experience paired with a creamy and mild touch. Both switches promise smooth operation, making them excellent choices for newcomers looking to elevate their keyboard experience. Overall, choosing between these two will largely depend on whether one prefers the brighter sound and silkiness of the Flaming Pink or the muted, smooth, and polished experience of the G Pro 3.0 Red.
Conclusion
In closing, choosing between the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you are looking for a switch that offers a premium typing experience with a silky smooth feel and a delightful clacky sound profile, the Flaming Pink is an excellent choice. This switch shines in both gaming and everyday typing scenarios, providing a responsive and satisfying experience that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, if you are seeking a budget-friendly yet high-performing option, the G Pro 3.0 Red is a solid contender. With its creamy typing feel and neutral sound profile, it accommodates a wide range of preferences and environments, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned typists alike. Additionally, if vibrant RGB lighting is important to you, the G Pro Red’s frosted light diffuser will enhance your setup significantly. Ultimately, whether you gravitate toward the Flaming Pink for its premium feel or the G Pro 3.0 Red for its accessibility and versatility, both switches provide a distinct experience that caters to the diverse needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.