Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Speed Silver, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is lauded for its premium quality at an affordable price point, offering a heavy typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is favored for its fast and precise typing capabilities, thanks to its light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance for quick actuation. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantive and clacky typing experience, the Speed Silver offers a smoother and more polished feel. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The primary difference between the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Speed Silver lies in their top housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Speed Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Speed Silver switch allows for a more resonant sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a POM bottom housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. This stands in contrast to the TTC Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing, which creates a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer material that absorbs more sound. While both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a deeper sound, while the Speed Silver offers a fuller and rounder typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TTC Speed Silver offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Black's combination of INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing results in a clacky sound with deeper tones, while the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing produce a crisper sound with rounder tones. Despite their differences, both switches showcase the impact of housing materials on sound quality, with the top housing affecting key release sound and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, a clear distinction can be drawn between the two. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a more favorable choice for those who prefer a lighter touch during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. While both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black is on the heavier side, making it suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel, whereas the Speed Silver is lighter and more suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we see that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the TTC Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black. The difference may seem minimal, but for some users, it can make a significant impact on typing or gaming experience. If you prefer a quicker, more responsive feel, the Speed Silver might be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more depth and tactility in your keystrokes, the G Pro 3.0 Black with a slightly longer travel distance could be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences, so it depends on personal preference which one would be the most suitable for you.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 described as having a clacky and subdued sound profile, providing a crisp and bright noise when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is known for its neutral sound, offering a moderate actuation force requirement. Depending on personal preference, the G Pro 3.0 Black may appeal more to those who enjoy a sharper and more percussive sound, while the Speed Silver is suitable for individuals looking for a more balanced and versatile sound experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is known for its creamy, silky, and subtle typing experience. This switch provides a smooth and buttery sensation, making each keystroke feel effortless. In comparison, the TTC Speed Silver switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with minimal resistance and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a level of comfort and ease in typing, but the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a more luxurious and distinct feel, while the Speed Silver provides a more universally approachable experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky and creamy typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial and luxurious feel, the Speed Silver offers a neutral and polished sound and feel, catering to individuals looking for a versatile and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with both switches delivering high-quality performance at their respective price points.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a more substantial typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a clacky sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision with a lighter bottom-out force and a neutral sound profile, the Speed Silver switch would be more fitting. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a heavier, more tactile experience or a lighter, swifter typing sensation.
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