Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the TTC Silent Frozen. On one hand, we have the G Pro 3.0 Brown, known for its budget-friendly yet high-quality construction. These tactile switches provide a gentle bump that enhances your typing flow without overpowering it, allowing for a delightful and subtle tactile sensation. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser adds a touch of elegance by enhancing the brightness of your RGB lighting, creating an immersive visual experience. With a medium-high pitch, these switches also offer a satisfying auditory feedback, bringing an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, we have the Silent Frozen switches from TTC, renowned for their incredibly quiet sound profile. These linear switches provide a super smooth and pillowy feel, making each keystroke a serene and seamless experience. Categorized as thocky, low-pitched, creamy, buttery, muted, feathery, subtle, and polished, these switches offer a unique typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the TTC Silent Frozen both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound performance, both switches will provide similar results.
However, where these switches differ is in their bottom housings. The G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent Frozen features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on the G Pro 3.0 Brown will elicit a deeper and fuller sound due to the absorbent nature of nylon. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by polycarbonate. Therefore, the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
On the other hand, the top housing of the switch plays a role in the sound produced when releasing a key. With both switches having polycarbonate top housings, the sound profiles will be similar when it comes to key releases. The top housing's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, giving a satisfying auditory experience.
In summary, while both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the TTC Silent Frozen share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, their bottom housings differ. The G Pro 3.0 Brown with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent Frozen with its polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. Nevertheless, both switches will offer a satisfying typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. These variances indicate that the Silent Frozen switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke and has a lighter bottoming out feel compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown. This makes the Silent Frozen switch a suitable choice for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience and want to reduce fatigue during extended typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a more substantial and robust typing feel, making it a better option for those who prefer a stronger push and desire a more tactile typing experience. Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is the heavier option, while the TTC Silent Frozen is the lighter alternative, both offering unique experiences based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is 4mm, while the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Frozen. A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered more traditional, providing a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, a travel distance of 3.5mm is slightly shallower, which can offer a quicker response time, preferred by gamers. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Silent Frozen with the shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial key press, the G Pro 3.0 Brown with its longer travel distance might be the preferred choice. Overall, both switches offer unique experiences, catering to different preferences.
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 Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.55.
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 switch is described as having a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback. It offers a pleasant and subtle tactile sensation, resulting in a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen switch is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile. It is often described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Its low-pitched and muted qualities make it an excellent option for those looking to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to the feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses. It requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, enhancing the overall typing experience. It is also considered mild, providing a gentle typing experience that most people find approachable. The switch has a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages in its tactile feedback – some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. Typing on this switch feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Other descriptors such as feathery, subtle, and polished are also associated with the Silent Frozen switch, indicating its exceptionally light to press, gentle resistance, and smooth and refined finish, respectively.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and TTC Silent Frozen switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a delightful and subtle tactile sensation with a medium-high pitch sound, while the Silent Frozen switch offers an extremely quiet sound profile with a creamy and buttery typing feel. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between a switch with a more pronounced tactile feedback and audible sound or a switch that prioritizes quietness and smoothness. Both switches offer their unique typing experiences, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable time at the keyboard.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. It offers a delightful and subtle tactile sensation with a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. The Silent Frozen, on the other hand, has a light bottom out force of 43 grams, which is great for reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It is known for its extremely quiet sound profile, described as thocky, low-pitched, and muted. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is easy-to-press with a mild and stepped characteristic, enhancing the typing experience with low impact and responsive feel. The Silent Frozen, on the other hand, offers a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless sensation. Consider these factors based on your personal preferences and requirements to make an informed decision on which switch suits you the best.
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