Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, and the TTC Silent Brown, a tactile switch. These two mechanical keyboard switches offer distinct features and benefits that cater to different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red is best known for its budget-friendly nature, delivering a smooth typing experience with its medium-light actuation force. It also boasts a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, along with a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. What sets them apart is their muted sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Silent Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice creates a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Aesthetically, both switches will showcase the clear housing typical of polycarbonate. With regards to the sound profile upon key release, the top housing of these switches will play a significant role.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Silent Brown utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's relatively softer composition allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. When pressing down on these switches, the qualities of the bottom housing will be most apparent in the bottom-out sound and feel, further enhancing the typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Silent Brown, they still provide similar results. The impact on the overall sound profile is distributed differently due to this distinction. The bottom housing primarily influences the sound when bottoming-out a key, delivering a deeper and fuller sound due to the nylon material. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, producing a sharper and crisper sound due to the polycarbonate material. These differences highlight the unique characteristics of each switch while ultimately providing a satisfying 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 Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that they have some similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the amount of force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This is beneficial for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch has a force of 50 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Silent Brown switch, which has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that the Silent Brown switch provides a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a stronger push feel would likely appreciate the heavier bottom out force offered by the Silent Brown switch. Overall, while the actuation force remains the same for both switches, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the Silent Brown switch is heavier.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the G Pro has a longer distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter distance of 3.8 mm. The G Pro falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper feeling when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Silent Brown offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which might be favored by gamers looking for a faster response time. So, if you value responsiveness, the Silent Brown would be the preferable choice, while those who prefer a more substantial key press experience may opt for the G Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer a notable difference in travel distance, catering to different preferences and needs.
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 Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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 profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a moderate sound. It strikes a balance between being suitable for beginners and advanced users, as well as for both home and work environments. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch is known for its muted sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or "clacky" switches. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. It is described as creamy and silky, providing a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. This can be attributed to factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch. The switch also falls into the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch is described as having a buttery, mild, and polished feel. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, giving a seamless and effortless sensation while typing. Similar to the G Pro 3.0 Red, it falls into the mild category, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The switch also features a polished finish, ensuring a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and TTC Silent Brown switches offer subjective qualities that provide a pleasant typing experience. While they may differ in terms of sound, with the G Pro 3.0 Red having a neutral profile and the Silent Brown being more muted, their feel is quite similar. Both switches offer a smooth and gentle typing experience, with attributes such as creaminess, mildness, and polished finishes. Therefore, if you are looking for a smooth and comfortable typing experience, either switch would be a great choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a light actuation force and a smooth typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its medium-light actuation force and creamy, mild, polished, and silky feel, this switch offers a silky and effortless typing experience. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, if you value a comfortable tactile typing experience with resistance and a softer, muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch would be the way to go. With its light-medium resistance and buttery, mild, and polished feel, this switch provides a gentle and fluid keystroke experience. Moreover, its muted sound profile minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches have their unique features and advantages, so ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences and priorities.
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