Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Light Cloud V2 are two notable contenders in the linear switch category, each offering unique attributes tailored to different user preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black, with its heavier actuation force of 60g and a 70g bottom-out force, caters to those who enjoy a more substantive and tactile typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where feedback is crucial. Its medium-high-pitched auditory profile adds an atmospheric element, while the frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, contributing to a striking visual appeal. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 excels as a silent switch, designed for individuals who prioritize a refined and delicate typing feel. Weighing in at a lighter actuation, this switch is perfect for users who value subtlety and ease of pressing, allowing for a more fluid typing experience without distracting noise. While both switches deliver excellent performance, they cater to distinct preferences, underscoring the importance of personal choice in the mechanical keyboard realm. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Light Cloud V2 differ significantly in both their composition and the sound profiles they produce. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which is noted for its pointed and high-pitched sound, often described as clacky. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 employs a nylon material for its top housing, contributing to a deeper, fuller sound that is more muted and rounded. This distinction in the top housing materials suggests that the key release experience will be markedly different between the two switches, with the G Pro 3.0 Black delivering a sharper auditory feedback while the Light Cloud V2 offers a more subdued sound.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches take a different approach. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing, renowned for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. The TTC Light Cloud V2, however, also uses nylon for its bottom housing, which similarly contributes to a deeper sound but cultivates a fuller timbre due to the soft absorption properties of nylon. This indicates that while both switches aim for depth in their sound profiles, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom may create a clearer distinction in acoustic characteristics compared to the rounded depth offered by the nylon bottom of the Light Cloud V2.
Additionally, the interplay between the top and bottom housings in both switches reinforces how their design impacts the overall typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black combines its sharp, clacky top sound with a more muted bottom response, creating a unique auditory experience that contrasts with the Light Cloud V2's consistent output, which is uniformly deep and rounded due to its nylon construction in both housings. Consequently, while both switches can produce pleasing acoustic feedback, the distinct materials used — POM versus nylon for the bottom and proprietary INK blend versus nylon for the top — result in fundamentally different sound profiles, thereby providing users with varied tactile and auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences among users. The G Pro 3.0 Black features an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium category. This indicates that the G Pro 3.0 Black requires more effort to press down, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Light Cloud V2’s lighter forces allow for easier and potentially more comfortable typing sessions, ideal for prolonged use or gaming. Ultimately, if you're looking for a heavier switch feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the better choice, whereas the Light Cloud V2 offers a lighter touch for extended periods of typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, a distinct difference emerges. The G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, making it longer and providing a more substantial feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter and may be more appealing to those who favor quicker response times typically sought after by gamers. While both switches operate within the realm of linear switches, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a deeper and potentially more satisfying typing experience, while the Light Cloud V2 caters to users seeking a more responsive and less abrupt keypress. Therefore, if you value a hearty depth in your typing, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the better choice, whereas the Light Cloud V2 is ideal for those prioritizing swift actions.
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 Light Cloud V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Cloud V2 for $5.49.
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 examining the auditory qualities of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Light Cloud V2, distinct differences emerge. The G Pro 3.0 Black produces a clacky sound, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive tone that can provide an engaging tactile experience for typists who appreciate auditory feedback. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 offers a more neutral sound profile, which falls into a moderate range and is suitable for various environments, whether at home or work. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 Black can produce a more pronounced auditory signature, the Light Cloud V2 maintains a less obtrusive presence, making it ideal for quieter spaces or shared environments.
In terms of the tactile feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black delivers a creamy and silky typing experience, enabling a smooth, effortless glide across the keys. The switch's heavier actuation force contributes to a more substantial typing experience, allowing users to appreciate the tactile feedback with a certain level of resistance. Conversely, the TTC Light Cloud V2 leans towards a mild and easy-to-press feel, making it particularly well-suited for users who prefer minimal finger exertion and a gentle response during typing. This switch provides a comfortable, feathery touch, reducing the strain on fingers during extended use. Thus, while the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more robust tactile sensation, the Light Cloud V2 favors a softer, lighter feel that many may find appealing for prolonged typing sessions.
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Light Cloud V2, it’s essential to consider both sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black delivers a dynamic clacky sound and a substantial, creamy typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy a more engaging and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 provides a neutral sound profile and a feather-light feel, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and ease during their typing tasks. The choice ultimately hinges on personal preference for sound dynamics and tactile feedback, as each switch presents unique advantages suitable to different typists’ needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Light Cloud V2 should depend on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a tactile, medium-heavy typing experience that provides both a satisfying bottom-out force and a pronounced auditory feedback, then the G Pro 3.0 Black is the ideal switch for you. Its creamy and silky feel, combined with the clacky sound profile, makes it a great choice for those who relish in the joy of typing or gaming with a more substantial feel. Furthermore, the enhanced RGB illumination from its frosted light diffuser can elevate your setup's aesthetics. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a more subdued sound that is conducive to extended typing sessions in shared environments, the TTC Light Cloud V2 will serve you well. Its easy-to-press and feathery design minimizes finger fatigue, making it perfect for those long hours of writing or programming where comfort is key. Ultimately, understanding your typing style and environment will guide you to the switch that best complements your needs.
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