Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. TTC Gold Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Gold Red, both of which are linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 Red, from Gateron's G Pro line-up, is a budget-friendly choice that offers a smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gold Red switches from TTC offer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. These switches have a snappy sound profile that adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. Both switches have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different individuals. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

TTC Gold Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Gold Red, both featuring polycarbonate top housings, offer similar advantages in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Polycarbonate is a stiff plastic, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. It creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing on the switches. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches provide a comparable experience in terms of sound and visual appeal.

In regards to the bottom housing, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Gold Red feature nylon. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound when pressing down on the switches. While the sound and feel during bottom-out are influenced by the bottom housing, this aspect remains consistent between the two switches.

When it comes to the impact on sound when releasing a key, the top housing plays a more significant role. As both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the sound produced when letting go of a key will be quite similar. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a crisper sound profile when the key is released, enhancing the overall typing experience.

Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Gold Red provide comparable sound profiles and aesthetics due to their shared polycarbonate top housings. However, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches results in slight differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red offers a deeper and fuller sound during bottom-out, while the Gold Red's nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound. Nevertheless, the impact of the bottom housing remains consistent between the two switches, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, we can see that they have quite similar characteristics. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the level of resistance felt when fully pressing down the keys.

However, when it comes to actuation force, there is a slight difference between the two switches. The G Pro 3.0 Red requires a force of 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Gold Red requires a slightly lighter force of 43 grams. This means that the Gold Red switch will be slightly more sensitive and require a lighter touch to register a keystroke.

Considering weight, it is worth noting that both switches fall into the category of being relatively light. This is advantageous for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it allows them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. Moreover, the lighter weight is beneficial for those using the keyboard for work or engaging in long gaming sessions.

Some users, however, may prefer a heavier actuation force as it provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience. For them, options with heavier actuation forces would be more suitable. In this case, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and TTC Gold Red switches may not fulfill this preference entirely, as they both have relatively light actuation forces.

In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and TTC Gold Red linear switches have similar bottom out forces, the Gold Red switch has a slightly lighter actuation force. This makes it slightly more sensitive and preferable for individuals who prefer a lighter touch. However, both switches are relatively light overall, which is beneficial for users who value extended typing sessions and reduced fatigue.

Travel distance

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance when using both switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and skill levels. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red switch is described as having a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a deep, satisfying sound similar to a "thud" or a soft "knock" when pressed and released. The low-pitched characteristic gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as offering a creamy, mild, and polished typing experience. The creamy characteristic indicates that it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, possibly due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used. The mild characteristic means that it provides a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the polished characteristic indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red switch is described as offering a mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing experience. The silky characteristic enhances the smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The subtle characteristic means that it has a gentle resistance without being too light, and the polished characteristic ensures a sleek typing experience with reduced friction.

Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch and the TTC Gold Red switch offer unique and desirable characteristics. They both provide a smooth typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Red displaying a creamy and polished feel, while the Gold Red offers a silky and subtle typing experience. The sound profiles differ, with the G Pro 3.0 Red having a neutral sound and the Gold Red having a thocky and low-pitched sound. Both switches are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether for beginners or advanced users, and can be used in different settings, such as at home or work. It's important to consider personal preferences, as well as factors such as keyboard board and keycaps, to determine the best choice based on individual needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Gold Red linear switches, you should consider your preferences for both sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a neutral switch with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. It offers a creamy feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Red switch is also described as mild, silky, and polished. It offers a more gentle typing experience and enhances overall smoothness, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The sound profile of the Gold Red switch is thocky and low-pitched, adding a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch with brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects and a medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a more satisfying deep and rich sound, along with a silky and polished typing feel, then the TTC Gold Red switch may be the more suitable option. Consider your personal preferences and requirements to make an informed decision.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more

TTC Gold Red Linear

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

Learn more