Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches for your typing pleasure: the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the TTC Gold Red. If you value a tactile typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the way to go. With its gentle bump that won't disrupt your typing flow, these switches provide just the right amount of tactile sensation. Plus, the frosted light diffuser enhances your keyboard's RGB lighting, creating a visually immersive experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and snappy typing experience, the TTC Gold Red linear switches are the perfect choice. Offering a light-medium level of resistance, these switches ensure your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys. The snappy sound profile adds personality to your keyboard without being too loud or attention-seeking. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the TTC Gold Red have similar housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant light transmission. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience and aesthetic appeal from both switches.
Furthermore, both switches incorporate a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, the sound produced by the switches is duller and rounder, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gold Red benefit from this nylon bottom housing, ensuring users a satisfying sound while typing.
Despite the similarities in housing materials, it is important to note that the qualities each material brings to the switches are divided between the top and bottom housing. When pressing down on either switch, the impact and sound will predominantly come from the bottom housing. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing's material will have a more noticeable impact on the resulting sound. Therefore, while the overall sound profile may be similar between the two switches, subtle differences in sound and feel can be attributed to the variation in housing materials.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and TTC Gold Red share commonalities in their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder tone. While the overall sound may be similar, the impact of each housing material differs depending on whether you are pressing down or releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, a notable difference becomes apparent. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gold Red's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the G Pro 3.0 Brown again has a higher force requirement of 63 grams compared to the Gold Red's 50 grams.
With the G Pro 3.0 Brown, typists and gamers can expect a medium level of actuation force, providing a satisfying tactile feedback when triggering keystrokes. Additionally, the higher bottom out force offers a more substantial typing experience, appealing to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel on their keyboard. On the other hand, the Gold Red's actuation force is lighter, allowing for easier triggering of keystrokes with less effort. The lower bottom out force provides a lighter and more effortless typing experience.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Gold Red switch. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces make it suitable for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions where finger fatigue may become a concern. Alternatively, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience may favor the G Pro 3.0 Brown, with its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and TTC Gold Red switches offer different force requirements for actuation and bottoming out. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a medium level of actuation and bottom out forces, the Gold Red offers a lighter touch. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preferences, whether it be endurance for long periods of typing or a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, pressing down on a key equipped with either switch will result in a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer an identical tactile experience, providing a consistent and satisfying keypress. The travel distance acts as a measure of the switch's responsiveness and can greatly impact typing or gaming experiences. With these switches, users can expect a precise and controlled keystroke, ensuring accuracy and comfort.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown 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 Brown for $2.77.
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 Brown switch offers a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback. This adds an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red switch is described as thocky, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It has a low-pitched sound profile that features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Gold Red switch is also described as neutral, indicating a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and TTC Gold Red switches are described as offering a mild typing experience. They both fall into a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of their characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is known for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, and providing a low-impact typing feel. It also has a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Gold Red switch is described as silky and subtle. It offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It has a gentle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces and a polished finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and TTC Gold Red switches offer their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Brown switch provides a delightful and subtle tactile sensation with a medium-high pitched sound. It is easy-to-press and offers a stepped feel. On the other hand, the Gold Red switch offers a buttery smooth typing experience, a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, and a silky and subtle feel. Both switches provide a mild and approachable typing experience. While they have their own distinct characteristics, if you prefer a gentle bump and medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a smoother feel and a thocky, low-pitched sound, the Gold Red switch would be a great option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a budget-friendly switch that still provides a satisfying tactile feedback, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is an excellent choice. With a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, these switches offer a delightful and subtle tactile sensation that won't overpower your typing flow. The frosted light diffuser enhances your RGB lighting and creates an immersive visual experience. Additionally, the G Pro Brown produces a medium-high pitch that adds an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a smooth and polished typing experience, the TTC Gold Red is a great option. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, these linear switches offer a buttery smooth typing feel. The snappy sound profile adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. Moreover, the Gold Red switches are described as silky and polished, ensuring an exceptionally smooth and refined finish during key travel.
Ultimately, the final decision between the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Gold Red will depend on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a tactile feedback and a medium actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the way to go. However, if you prioritize a lighter and smoother typing experience, the Gold Red switches are worth considering. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, so choose the one that aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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