Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Venus mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to weigh their unique features and qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Red is lauded for its budget-friendly linear design that offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch produces a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus stands out for its innovative internal configuration, providing a seamless glide paired with a distinctive "Q-texture" for a matte sensation akin to biting into a chewy mochi. With a very light actuation for rapid typing and a muted sound signature, each keystroke is smooth and engaging. While the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a more traditional typing experience, the TTC Venus provides a unique tactile sensation. 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Venus, it is evident that they both utilize different materials for their top housing. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. In contrast, the Venus employs a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing on the G Pro 3.0 Red is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, providing an added aesthetic appeal.
Moving on to the bottom housing of these switches, the G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This is because nylon is a softer material that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Venus incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which, like its top housing, results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. The choice of bottom housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the softer nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red offering a different typing experience compared to the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Venus.
In situations where both top and bottom housings differ in material, the characteristics brought by each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. This results in a combination of sound profiles and typing experiences when using these switches. While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red focuses on utilizing different materials for the top and bottom housings to offer a unique typing experience, the TTC Venus opts for a consistent material choice throughout, providing a consistent sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch are quite similar in terms of actuation force, with both requiring 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter, requiring 50 grams to fully press the key, while the Venus is slightly heavier, needing 52 grams for the same. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the better option, as it allows for longer typing or gaming sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Venus with its slightly heavier bottom out force may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches provide a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, making them ideal for fast-paced gaming where quick response times are crucial. The G Pro 3.0 Red offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the TTC Venus with its shorter travel distance may be preferred by users looking for a more immediate and responsive feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a neutral profile, making it suitable for various settings and users, whether beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch is described as having a low-pitched and muted sound, providing a quieter and more mellow typing experience. Both switches aim to minimize noise, with the Venus switch offering a slightly softer and more subdued auditory experience overall. The choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and the surrounding environment in which they will be used.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is known for providing a creamy and mild typing experience, with a smooth and buttery feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch is described as buttery and polished, offering a seamless and frictionless typing sensation. Both switches prioritize smoothness and ease of typing, ensuring a pleasant tactile experience with each keystroke. Whether you prefer a slightly more gentle feel with the G Pro 3.0 Red or a truly frictionless experience with the Venus, both switches deliver on providing a comfortable and engaging typing feel.
With the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, users have access to quality linear switches that prioritize smoothness, ease of typing, and a muted sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a neutral sound profile and a creamy typing feel, the TTC Venus provides a low-pitched, muted sound and a buttery, polished typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a slightly brighter sound with a medium actuation force or a more mellow sound with a very light actuation, both switches offer excellent options for users seeking a linear switch for their mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch or the TTC Venus linear switch, it's important to take into account your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the right choice for you. Its medium-light actuation force and neutral sound profile make it suitable for a variety of intents and purposes. On the other hand, if you value a unique "matte" sensation with a very light actuation force and a low-pitched, muted sound, the TTC Venus switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your specific typing preferences and requirements.
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