Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the TTC Silent Brown, two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches that provide an impressive typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch, offers a gentle bump that enhances your typing flow without being intrusive. With the added bonus of a frosted light diffuser, this switch ensures that your RGB lighting shines brighter, creating an immersive visual experience. Additionally, its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback, elevating your typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown, also a tactile switch, offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. What sets it apart is its impressive muted sound profile, allowing for a more discreet typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the TTC Silent Brown switches have polycarbonate top housings, which means they share similar qualities in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that resonates more clearly. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Silent Brown, you can expect a similar experience in terms of sound and visual appeal.
Where these switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This absorption creates a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out on the G Pro 3.0 Brown. On the other hand, the Silent Brown also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, so it shares these same qualities of a deep and full sound profile. With both switches using nylon for the bottom housing, the sound and feel when pressing down on the keys will be quite similar.
When it comes to the overall sound and feel of these switches, the bottom housing plays a significant role. The bottom housing has a stronger impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, despite the differences in the bottom housing material, the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Silent Brown will likely have comparable performance in terms of typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 45 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a medium level of resistance.
For those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods of time, the Silent Brown may be the more suitable option. With its lower actuation force, it requires less force to trigger a keystroke, reducing fatigue during long sessions. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown, with its higher actuation force, offers a stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance.
In terms of bottoming out, both switches require the same amount of force at 63 grams. This means that regardless of the actuation force, the user will end up with similar results when pressing the keys all the way down.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the TTC Silent Brown, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but with slight variations in actuation force that can cater to different typing or gaming preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have different travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is a more traditional length. On the other hand, the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes it a more shallow option compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown.
In the gaming community, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular due to the desire for faster response times. Gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as it allows them to actuate keys more quickly. So, if you prioritize responsiveness in your typing or gaming experience, the shorter travel distance of the TTC Silent Brown may be more suitable for you.
However, it's important to note that shorter travel distances can sometimes feel abrupt or lacking in depth for some individuals. If you prefer a more substantial keystroke or a sense of greater travel when typing or gaming, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown with its 4 mm travel distance might be a better choice.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a shorter travel distance for faster response times, go for the TTC Silent Brown. However, if you prefer a switch with a longer travel distance that offers a more tactile and satisfying keystroke, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown will provide you with those qualities.
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 Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
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 Brown is known for its medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback. This adds an extra layer of joy to typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown is described as having a muted sound profile. This means it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is described as easy-to-press, offering a gentle resistance during key presses. This requires minimal force to activate the switch, making typing effortless and comfortable. It enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is classified as a mild switch, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. Moreover, it features a stepped design, meaning it has a two-stage tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown is described as having a buttery feel. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Similar to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, it is also categorized as a mild switch, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Silent Brown is noted to have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This contributes to a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and TTC Silent Brown tactile switches have some differences in sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a medium-high pitch sound with a delightful tactile sensation, while the Silent Brown provides a muted sound profile and a buttery smooth feel. Both switches fall within the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. It is important to consider personal preferences and factors such as keyboard board and keycaps when choosing between these switches. However, if you desire a similar result in terms of sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying and comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is a great choice. These switches offer a delightful and subtle tactile sensation with a gentle bump that enhances your typing flow. The frosted light diffuser ensures your RGB lighting shines brighter, creating an immersive visual experience. Additionally, the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback, adding an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the way to go. These switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. The muted sound profile minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance, making typing effortless and comfortable. The mild and stepped characteristics add to the overall low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the Silent Brown provides a buttery and polished typing experience, with smooth and fluid key travel resulting in a sleek typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and TTC Silent Brown switches depends on your preferences for sound and feel.
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