Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The battle of linear mechanical keyboard switches is always a tough one, especially when comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Gold Silver. The G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a heavier actuation and bottom-out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit of weight behind each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver excels in rapid responsiveness with a shortened travel distance, resulting in a swift and precise typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black emphasizes a medium-high pitch and vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the TTC Gold Silver offers a resonant sound signature and smooth keystroke journey. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Gold Silver switches provide different sound profiles and aesthetics. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that gives it a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the Gold Silver uses a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Black has a POM bottom housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound, the Gold Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing that produces a fuller and rounder sound. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a unique sound experience with its blend of housing materials, while the Gold Silver offers a clearer and resonant sound profile.
The difference in housing materials between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and TTC Gold Silver switches also affects their tactile feedback. The G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing creates a unique typing experience with a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller sound with a softer and more absorbent material. This difference in tactile feedback can impact the overall typing feel and sound of the switches, providing users with a choice between a deeper and more muted experience or a fuller and rounder one. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials, catering to different user preferences.
While the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and TTC Gold Silver switches provide distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback, they both offer high-quality construction and performance. The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings of the switches allows for a variety of sound experiences, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. Both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience, whether you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound like the G Pro 3.0 Black, or a sharper and crisper sound like the Gold Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preferences in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Gold Silver's 45 grams, making the G Pro 3.0 Black the heavier option in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black requires 70 grams while the Gold Silver's bottom out force is unknown. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a more substantial push feel, while the Gold Silver offers a lighter typing experience which may be preferred for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Gold Silver switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black switch. The 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable difference in the keypress experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Gold Silver switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback in their keystrokes may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference, and users can expect similar results in terms of performance.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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 linear switch is known for its clacky and subdued sound profile, providing a crisp and bright tone with a hint of subtlety. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offers a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound signature that delivers a deep, rich, and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. Depending on personal preference, the G Pro 3.0 Black may appeal to those who enjoy a snappy and percussive sound, while the Gold Silver may cater to individuals seeking a more satisfying and bass-heavy auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black is esteemed for its creamy, silky, and subtle typing sensation, offering a smooth and buttery experience with gentle resistance. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver boasts a polished, silky, mild, and subtle feel that provides a refined and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and gentle key travel. Both switches excel in offering a smooth and approachable typing feel, catering to users who prioritize comfort and ease of use.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch may differ in sound and feel characteristics, they both provide high-quality typing experiences tailored to individual preferences. Whether you seek a clacky and creamy typing feel with a bright sound profile or a thocky and polished sensation with a deep, resonant sound, both switches offer exceptional performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your specific typing preferences and desired auditory and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you enjoy a clacky and somewhat subdued sound profile. On the other hand, if you value rapid responsiveness, smooth keystrokes, and a thocky, low-pitched sound, the TTC Gold Silver switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to prioritize what factors are most important to you when making your decision.