Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the landscape of mechanical keyboard switches, two popular linear options that stand out are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Silent Red. The G Pro 3.0 Black is celebrated for its premium quality at an accessible price, characterized by a heavier actuation force of 60g and a bottom-out weight of 70g, providing a notably substantial typing experience. This switch offers a medium-high pitch auditory profile that some users may find satisfying, while its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects for a vibrant visual experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red caters to those seeking a quieter and more discreet typing experience, making it an ideal choice for shared spaces. It features a smooth, consistent feel throughout the keypress, with a padded bottom-out texture that enhances comfort. Both switches have their unique attributes appealing to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a tactile experience and the Silent Red prioritizing silence and smoothness. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Silent Red, noticeable differences and similarities emerge, particularly in their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is noted for its pointed, high-pitched sound that provides a satisfying, clacky character with less harshness. In contrast, the Silent Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for delivering a sharper, crisper sound profile. This inherent clarity is attributed to polycarbonate's rigidity, which allows it to produce a more resonant auditory experience. While both switches provide a high-pitched sound profile, the nuanced differences in their materials can lead to distinct auditory experiences, despite sharing a somewhat similar outcome in sound clarity and pitch.
Diving deeper, the bottom housing materials of these switches reveal further differences that influence their overall sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black's bottom housing comprises POM, resulting in a deeper, more muted sound that delivers a unique auditory quality. Conversely, the Silent Red's nylon bottom housing is known for its fuller, rounder sound, which is shaped by nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, leading to a mellower impact. This divergence indicates that while both switches possess high-pitched top housings, their corresponding lower housings contribute differently to the overall sound profile, ultimately affecting how these switches will express sound when bottomed out.
It is crucial to note that even though the G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Silent Red utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, they can yield complementary results, particularly in sound character. The interplay between the high-pitched clarity of the top housing and the specific sound absorption qualities of the bottom housing allows each switch to achieve a balanced auditory output. Whether one desires the clackiness of the INK blend or the crispness of the polycarbonate, each switch can deliver an engaging typing experience. The sound profile produced when pressing and releasing keys reflects the influence of both the top and bottom housing materials, leading to a unique yet broad range of sound options within mechanical keyboards, regardless of the chosen switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Silent Red features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also classified as medium-heavy. This makes the Silent Red the lighter option, which can be advantageous for users who prefer a gentler touch for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience might gravitate towards the heavier G Pro 3.0 Black, finding its stronger resistance more satisfying. Overall, if users seek a balance between comfort and feedback, both switches offer unique characteristics suited to different preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it's clear that the G Pro 3.0 Black is the longer of the two at 4 mm, while the Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference indicates that those who favor a more traditional, deeper feel while typing or gaming might prefer the G Pro 3.0 Black for its greater travel depth, which can provide a more pronounced tactile experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Silent Red makes it a suitable choice for gamers seeking quick response times, as the reduced travel can facilitate faster key presses. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth; however, if you prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for more tactile feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Black is the ideal option.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more pronounced auditory experience characterized by a medium-high pitch that can be described as clacky. This means that it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, making it noticeable in shared spaces—though not obnoxiously so. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red presents a muted sound profile, designed to minimize the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. The Silent Red's softer auditory output makes it a better fit for quieter environments such as offices or shared living spaces. Therefore, while both switches produce distinctive sounds, the G Pro 3.0 Black will be more prominent and can be described as more lively, whereas the Silent Red is exceptionally discreet.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black excels with its creamy and silky typing experience, allowing for smooth and buttery keystrokes that glide effortlessly with each press. This makes it pleasurable for long typing sessions because of the gentle resistance it provides. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red also offers a smooth typing experience but is characterized by its buttery feel and polished finish, suggesting an even more refined experience. The overall typing sensation is fluid and easy, making these switches approachable for users seeking a comfortable feel without any harshness. Both switches are designed to enhance the user experience, but the G Pro 3.0 Black may edge slightly towards a more substantial feel compared to the mild and polished nature of the Silent Red.
In conclusion, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Silent Red boils down to personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you appreciate a stronger auditory feedback and a heavier switch profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black is likely to be more satisfying. However, if your priority is a quiet typing experience that feels smooth and refined, the Silent Red stands out as a commendable option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different typing styles and environments, ensuring that newcomers can find a switch that aligns with their preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Silent Red linear switches ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and environmental considerations. If you are someone who enjoys a heavier, more tactile experience with a distinctive auditory feedback, then the G Pro 3.0 Black is the ideal pick. Its 70g bottom-out force gives a substantive feel that caters well to gamers or typists who appreciate a more pronounced keypress. Additionally, the G Pro's clacky sound and creamy feel enhance the overall typing experience, making it perfect for those who relish expressive typing. Conversely, if you find yourself typing in quieter environments, such as shared offices or living spaces, the TTC Silent Red is your go-to option. Its muted sound profile and smooth, buttery keystroke provide a comfortable experience without disturbing those around you. The Silent Red's slightly lighter bottom-out force and polished feel ensure a gentle yet satisfying typing journey. Thus, consider your needs carefully: opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black for a more vibrant and substantial feel, or choose the TTC Silent Red for a serene, unobtrusive typing experience.
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