Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Gold Silver mechanical keyboard switches, we encounter two linear switches that excel in different aspects. The G Pro 3.0 Red is renowned for its balance between responsiveness and ease of use, offering a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force. This switch also boasts vibrant RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience, all at a budget-friendly price point. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver stands out for its rapid responsiveness and shortened travel, providing a decisive bottom-out with each keystroke. This switch emphasizes speed, sound, and fluidity, making it ideal for those seeking precision and efficiency in their typing. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Gold Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This characteristic makes them ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Despite having different bottom housings, the overall sound profile of both switches is influenced by a combination of both top and bottom housing materials.
While the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches enhances the sound profile with its sharp and clear characteristics, the nylon bottom housings offer a contrasting deeper and fuller sound experience. This combination of housing materials provides a unique typing experience for users, allowing them to enjoy a range of sound profiles depending on how they interact with the switches. Whether you prefer a sharper sound when pressing down on the keys or a deeper sound when releasing them, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gold Silver offer a variety of auditory feedback for typing enthusiasts.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Gold Silver showcase the importance of housing materials in creating distinct sound profiles for mechanical switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the differences in bottom housing material contribute to their individual sound characteristics. Whether you enjoy a crisper sound with a polycarbonate top housing or a fuller sound with a nylon bottom housing, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials allows for a dynamic typing experience that can be tailored to suit the user's preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is 45 grams, making them equally light in this aspect. However, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Silver is unknown. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Red is heavier when it comes to fully pressing down the keys compared to the Gold Silver, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, if actuation force is the main concern, both switches would provide a similar typing experience due to their equal actuation force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Gold Silver's 3.5 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a more traditional key press feel, while the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Gold Silver provides a slightly shallower experience. Gamers seeking faster response times may lean towards the Gold Silver with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Red with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red for $2.77.
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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 Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and rich auditory experience that can be quite satisfying. Depending on your personal preference and the setup of your keyboard, you can achieve different sound profiles with these switches.
In terms of feel, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gold Silver switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red is described as creamy and mild, providing a silky sensation and a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Similarly, the Gold Silver switch is polished and silky, offering smooth key travel and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. With both switches falling into the polished and silky category, you can expect a consistent and pleasant typing feel from either option.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red provides a neutral sound profile and a creamy, mild typing experience, while the TTC Gold Silver delivers a thocky, low-pitched sound and a polished, silky feel. Depending on your specific preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would come down to personal preference and the specific characteristics you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In sum, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a balance of responsiveness and ease of use, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is the ideal choice for you. Its light actuation force, medium-high pitch, and brighter RGB lighting effects make it perfect for a smooth typing experience without breaking the bank. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid responsiveness and a decisive bottom-out with a resonant sound signature, the TTC Gold Silver is the way to go. With its shortened travel and smooth keystrokes, the Gold Silver offers a blend of speed, sound, and fluidity in every press. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific preferences and priorities in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so choose wisely based on what matters most to you.
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