Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and TTC Speed Silver are two popular options for mechanical keyboard switches, both falling under the category of linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly choice from Gateron's G Pro line-up, aiming to provide a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force. This switch boasts a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, and its medium-high pitch adds to the satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is specifically designed for those who prioritize speed and precision. These tactile switches offer a light-medium level of resistance and produce a pristine sound profile. With a reduced travel distance, actuation is quick and effortless. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver switches both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. With similar top housings, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Speed Silver.
On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a nylon bottom housing, while the Speed Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing as well. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being relatively softer and absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches will elicit a duller and rounder sound, with the bottom housing having a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel.
In summary, while the top housings of the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Speed Silver are identical, the bottom housings differ. Both switches produce a similar sharper and crisper sound profile due to their polycarbonate top housings. However, the G Pro 3.0 Red's nylon bottom housing will provide a deeper and fuller sound, while the Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing will create a similar effect. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, both switches require 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, resulting in a light typing experience. This is beneficial for those who prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a distinction. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is relatively light and similar to its actuation force. On the other hand, the Speed Silver has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, giving it a more medium-light push feel. This means that for those looking for a more substantial typing experience, the Speed Silver may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a lightweight actuation force, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. The G Pro 3.0 Red's travel distance of 4.0mm is more traditional, offering a deeper press and a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Speed Silver's 3.4mm travel distance is shallower and more ideal for those who value faster response times, particularly gamers. While the Speed Silver's shorter travel distance provides a quicker key press, some individuals may find it too abrupt or lacking in depth compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - those who prioritize responsiveness may opt for the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may favor the longer travel distance.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Speed Silver switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a sound that is neither too loud nor too quiet. The pitch of the G Pro 3.0 Red is described as medium-high, providing a satisfying auditory experience. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual results may vary.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. The creamy characteristic indicates a smooth and buttery feel, possibly due to factory lubrication or specific materials used. The mild feature suggests that it provides a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics. With its polished finish, users can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel. The silky attribute enhances the overall smoothness of typing, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch is described as mild and polished, providing a safe and approachable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into account, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and TTC Speed Silver switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and skill levels. In terms of feel, they both provide a mild typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the G Pro 3.0 Red offers additional characteristics such as creaminess and silkiness, the overall typing experience of both switches can be expected to be similar. As always, individual preferences may vary, and it is important to consider other factors such as personal typing style and preference when choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and TTC Speed Silver switches are excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, but they do have some differences that may influence your decision. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Red is the switch for you. With its frosted light diffuser and medium-high pitch, it also provides a visually and auditory satisfying experience. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with reduced travel distance, the TTC Speed Silver is the switch to consider. It offers a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. In terms of sound, both switches have a moderate profile, making them suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with reduced friction, while the Speed Silver is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing requirements.
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