Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and TTC Yunhai stand out as compelling options for enthusiasts seeking linear switches. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is lauded for its budget-friendly price point and smooth typing experience, featuring a medium-light actuation force that effectively balances responsiveness with user comfort. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser allows for enhanced RGB lighting, creating a visually striking keyboard setup. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai offers a distinctly different typing experience, with a remarkably light actuation force coupled with a deep, rounded sound profile that many typists find exceptionally satisfying. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a gentle, almost effortless keystroke. While both switches have their merits, one prioritizing a vibrant aesthetic and combination of tactile comfort and auditory feedback, and the other emphasizing a lighter touch and pronounced sound, they cater to different preferences in the typing experience. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Yunhai switches differ significantly in their top housing materials, which plays a crucial role in the overall sound profile produced by each switch. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing, making it particularly appealing for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. This quality makes the G Pro 3.0 Red an excellent choice for setups using RGB lighting, as the clear nature of polycarbonate can create visually striking light displays. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai employs a nylon top housing, which is softer compared to polycarbonate. This results in a deeper and rounder sound profile, allowing for a more muted and rich auditory experience when typing.
However, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Yunhai share a commonality in their bottom housings, both constructed from nylon. This material choice provides a fuller and deeper sound profile for both switches, emphasizing the rounded sound quality that nylon is known for. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feel during typing, both switches are likely to provide a similar experience in this regard. As typing action continues to be a key factor, users may find the bottom-out feel pleasant and consistent across both models, despite the differences in the top housing.
Ultimately, while the top housings create distinct sound profiles for the G Pro 3.0 Red and the TTC Yunhai, the nylon bottom housing in both switches shares a common trait. This means that regardless of the differences in sound when typing, users can expect a similar deeper sound and tactile feedback during the bottom-out action. Thus, whether one prefers a sharp and crisp experience from the G Pro 3.0 Red or the softer and rounder feel of the Yunhai, the nylon materials in the bottom housing ensure that both switches operate effectively, catering to diverse typing preferences while maintaining a level of consistency in tactile performance.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces but differ slightly in their actuation force. The G Pro 3.0 Red features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Yunhai offers a slightly lighter actuation force at 42 grams, with the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the TTC Yunhai is lighter, making it potentially more suitable for enthusiasts who prefer prolonged typing sessions or long gaming marathons without fatigue. Both switches bottom out at the same force, providing a consistent keystroke experience when fully pressed down, which may appeal to users seeking a familiar feel. Therefore, while the bottoming out experience is akin in both switches, the actuation feel will differ slightly, favoring the lighter TTC Yunhai for those who prefer a softer touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Red, with its travel distance of 4 mm, is the longer option compared to the Yunhai, which measures 3.6 mm. This 0.4 mm difference may seem minor, but it could significantly impact the typing experience. The longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Red can provide a more tactile and hearty feel, which some users may prefer for a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Yunhai may appeal to gamers or those who prioritize responsiveness and quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for either a deeper press or a more rapid response.
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 Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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
The sound characteristics of the G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch present a neutral profile, making it suitable for a variety of users, whether you are typing at home or in the office. It operates with a moderate actuation force requirement and a balanced sound level, appealing to both beginners and experienced typists. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switch is characterized by its deep, rounded sound profile, providing a distinct auditory experience that may be more appealing to those who prefer a softer typing sound. This variation in sound makes each switch suitable for different environments and user preferences, but users can expect a more subdued acoustic environment with the Yunhai switch.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience, delivering a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance. This well-rounded texture makes it approachable for most users, allowing for fluid keystrokes and comfortable typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switch is notable for its incredibly light actuation force, which promotes an effortless, gentle feel during typing. While both switches aim for a pleasant tactile experience, the G Pro's refined characteristics provide a more nuanced experience compared to the Yunhai’s emphasis on lightness.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and TTC Yunhai linear switches cater to different user preferences in sound and feel. The G Pro shines with its neutral sound and creamy, polished typing experience, making it an excellent choice for users seeking smooth performance and versatile sound quality. In contrast, the deep, rounded sound of the Yunhai appeals to those who enjoy a softer auditory experience while taking advantage of its very light actuation force for effortless typing. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will largely depend on whether you prioritize sound or actuation feel in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red or the TTC Yunhai linear switch, you should assess your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the switch. The G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent choice if you're seeking a versatile and budget-friendly option that delivers a smooth and refined typing experience. Its neutral sound profile and creamy feel make it suitable for both beginners and advanced users alike, especially in a dual home and work setting where you might appreciate a balance of responsiveness and auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique typing experience characterized by a deep, rounded sound and an effortlessly light feel, then the Yunhai switch is likely the better fit for you. Its gentle actuation and focus on comfort make it ideal for long typing sessions, particularly for those who prioritize a softer touch. In the end, your decision should align with your specific typing needs, whether you value versatility and auditory feedback with the G Pro or seek comfort and a distinct sound experience with the Yunhai.
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