Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Iron, both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly option with a medium-light actuation force, providing a smooth typing experience without compromising responsiveness. It also boasts bright RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Iron stands out with its pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, perfect for fatigue-free typing sessions. While the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a balance between performance and affordability, the TTC Iron appeals to users seeking precision and pleasure in every keystroke. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. In comparison, the TTC Iron features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate used in the G Pro 3.0 Red is known for its translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM housing of the TTC Iron provides a distinct sound that may appeal to those looking for a deeper tone.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the G Pro 3.0 Red features a nylon bottom housing that enhances the sound with a deeper and fuller profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the TTC Iron's POM bottom housing contributes to a pleasing sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. Both bottom housings offer a unique typing experience by influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
In terms of overall typing experience, the different housing materials used in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and TTC Iron provide varying sound profiles when pressing down on the keys and releasing them. The qualities of the bottom housing are felt more prominently during key presses, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. While both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, users can expect distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch both have a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them equal in that aspect. However, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Iron's 41 grams, making it slightly heavier in terms of triggering a keystroke. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Iron for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may favor the slightly heavier actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Red for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, we find that the G Pro 3.0 Red has a travel distance of 4 mm while the TTC Iron has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Red offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Iron, providing a bit more depth when typing or gaming. The TTC Iron, on the other hand, offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it more responsive and suitable for those who prefer a quicker keypress. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the G Pro 3.0 Red leaning towards the longer end and the TTC Iron towards the shorter end. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming 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 Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 Red linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. While the G Pro Red offers a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes, the Iron switch stands out for its crisp and percussive sound, adding an extra level of satisfaction to typing sessions.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is known for providing a creamy and mild typing experience, offering smooth key travel and a gentle sensation with each press. The switch is described as polished and silky, ensuring a refined and effortless typing feel. In contrast, the TTC Iron linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use, providing a responsive and low-impact typing experience.
Overall, for those seeking a linear switch with a neutral sound profile and a smooth, buttery feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if a clacky sound signature and easy-to-press nature are preferred, the TTC Iron linear switch would be a compelling option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring an enjoyable and personalized typing experience for users. Ultimately, choosing between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Iron switches will depend on individual preferences in sound and feel, but both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a balance of responsiveness and ease of use, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium-light actuation force and vibrant RGB lighting effects, this switch can elevate your typing performance without breaking the bank. On the other hand, if you appreciate a distinctive clacky sound signature and buttery smooth travel in a switch, the TTC Iron linear switch would be perfect for you. Its pronounced clacky sound and light actuation ensure swift and satisfying typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between these switches would come down to your preference in sound and feel, with the G Pro 3.0 Red offering a creamy and polished typing experience, while the TTC Iron provides an easy-to-press and mild typing feel. Choose wisely based on your typing preferences and enjoy a satisfying typing experience with either of these switches.
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