Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Gold Red Pro are both linear switches that offer distinct advantages for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavy actuation and bottom-out force, appealing to those seeking a more solid typing experience with a medium-high pitch sound profile. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro offers a smoother typing experience with a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option for various settings and purposes. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantive feel, the Gold Red Pro excels in its adaptability and ease of use. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing and a POM bottom housing, creating a unique sound profile that is described as thin and clacky due to the high-pitched nature of the INK blend. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile with a deeper and fuller tone. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more distinct and satisfying sound when typing, the Gold Red Pro provides a clearer and resonant sound that may be preferred by some users.
Both the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gold Red Pro utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, resulting in a split of qualities between the two parts of the switch. The G Pro 3.0 Black benefits from the deeper sound profile of the POM bottom housing, whereas the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing contributes to a rounder and duller sound. This difference in sound characteristics may impact the typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound profile when using mechanical switches.
In terms of aesthetic appeal, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing offers a sleek and modern look with its pointed sound profile, while the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing provides a translucent design that is ideal for RGB lighting setups. Despite their differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their preference for either a clacky and satisfying sound or a sharper and crisper tone.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Gateron switch is heavier in both aspects. The G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro is lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter Gold Red Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may lean towards the heavier G Pro 3.0 Black for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Red Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the G Pro 3.0 Black being slightly longer. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Gold Red Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 is known for its clacky and subdued characteristics, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is not completely silent but offers a more subtle sound compared to other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is described as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various settings. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black being more distinct and the Gold Red Pro being more versatile in terms of sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is praised for its creamy, silky, and subtle typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery feel with gentle resistance and a sound signature suitable for shared spaces. Conversely, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is known for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle feel, providing a refined and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and gentle characteristics that appeal to a wide range of users. Both switches excel in offering a comfortable typing feel, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a more luxurious touch and the Gold Red Pro embracing a versatile and approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switches offer different sound and feel profiles, they both showcase quality craftsmanship and unique characteristics that cater to varying preferences. Whether you prioritize a clacky and creamy typing experience with the G Pro 3.0 Black or prefer a thocky and polished feel with the Gold Red Pro, both switches deliver exceptional performance at their respective price points. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific use case, but rest assured that both options will provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force, along with a clacky sound and creamy, silky typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize versatility with an ease of press, neutral sound signature, and polished, silky typing feel, the Gold Red Pro is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal typing style and preferences, so choose the switch that aligns best with your individual needs and desires.
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