Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Neptune are both linear switches that offer unique typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The G Pro 3.0 Red is praised for its budget-friendly nature and medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. With a frosted light diffuser and medium-high pitch, this switch allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, delivering a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance that mimics the texture of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. The ultralight Neptune ensures swift typing with a muted sound signature for a refined ambiance. While both switches offer unique benefits, it is important to delve deeper into their individual characteristics to determine which one best suits your preferences and typing style. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Neptune, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics in terms of housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, particularly ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Neptune utilizes a POM top housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Red's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances a sharper and clearer sound profile. This difference in bottom housing materials influences the overall sound and feel of each switch.
Despite their differences in housing materials, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Neptune offer unique experiences to users. The use of polycarbonate in the G Pro 3.0 Red's housing creates a more resonant sound profile, while the Neptune's POM housing delivers a deeper and pleasing sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red contributes to a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune, which enhances a clearer and sharper sound. These contrasting qualities provide users with a variety of options based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Neptune will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and aesthetics. While both switches offer unique qualities in their housing materials, such as polycarbonate, POM, and nylon, users can expect a clear and resonant sound from the G Pro 3.0 Red and a deeper and pleasing sound from the Neptune. Whether one prefers a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and more muted sound, both switches provide a range of options to cater to different preferences. In the end, users can select the switch that aligns most closely with their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, we can see that both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams. However, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams. In terms of weight, both switches can be considered lightweight. This means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience may find both switches suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. However, those who enjoy a slightly heavier push feel may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while the actuation force slightly differs between the two switches, both can provide similar results for users seeking a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Neptune slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, with the G Pro 3.0 Red being slightly longer than the Neptune. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Neptune due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red. Ultimately, both switches provide a balance between speed and tactility, providing users with a smooth 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 Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or veterans. This switch produces a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory experience without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch has a low-pitched and muted sound signature, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is refined and unobtrusive. The Neptune's sound is described as subdued and thocky, offering a more dampened and satisfying sound when pressed. Overall, both switches provide different sound profiles, with the G Pro 3.0 Red leaning towards a brighter and more vibrant sound, while the Neptune offers a more muted and harmonious typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is known for its creamy and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. This switch provides a silky feel, allowing users to effortlessly glide their fingers across the keys with ease. In contrast, the TTC Neptune linear switch provides a buttery and frictionless typing experience, minimizing resistance and offering a fluid travel with every keystroke. The Neptune also shares the polished and mild characteristics with the G Pro 3.0 Red, ensuring a sleek and gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches offer a smooth and refined typing feel, with the Neptune emphasizing a more effortless and uniform sensation.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red offers a balanced sound profile with a medium-high pitch, while the Neptune delivers a more subdued and thocky sound experience. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a creamy and mild typing experience, while the Neptune offers a buttery and frictionless sensation. Both switches excel in providing a smooth and refined typing experience, making them suitable choices for users looking for different auditory and tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and would result in a satisfying typing experience for users seeking linear switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider your preference for the typing experience. If you are looking for a smooth and balanced typing feel with a moderate actuation force and a satisfying auditory experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an innovative internal structure that provides a unique matte feel, coupled with a gentle and frictionless typing experience, the TTC Neptune might be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing performance.
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