Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Embark on a gaming odyssey with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, and the TTC Gold Brown, a tactile switch. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro line-up offer an exceptional gaming experience with unmatched value. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness, giving you a competitive advantage. The vibrant RGB lighting, enhanced by the frosted light diffuser, illuminates your gaming setup, while the medium-high pitch adds an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gold Browns from TTC offer a balanced feel with a satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. The rounded sound profile of these switches is generally much softer than most, without being completely silent. Both switches have their strengths, offering a different tactile experience and sound profile. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Gold Brown both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper tone. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for switches with RGB lighting. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the vibrant display of lighting effects. Therefore, whether choosing the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Gold Brown, users can expect a comparable sound experience with excellent compatibility for RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gold Brown feature nylon material. This choice of material adds depth and fullness to the sound profile of the switches. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. When typing on switches that utilize nylon as the bottom housing material, users will experience a deeper and more resonant sound. This quality enhances the overall typing experience, offering a satisfying auditory feedback.
Although the top and bottom housings of the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gold Brown differ in material, their impact on the switch's performance is distinct. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key, while the top housing has a stronger impact on the sound produced when releasing the key. This distinction allows for a varied experience in typing, as users can appreciate different sound profiles depending on their actions. However, both switches guarantee a robust and well-rounded auditory feedback, delivering a satisfying experience to users.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Gold Brown requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is also lighter, requiring 50 grams of force, whereas the Gold Brown has a higher bottom out force of 63 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the ideal choice, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. Its light actuation force makes it perfect for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who appreciate a more substantial typing experience might prefer the TTC Gold Brown. With its higher actuation and bottom out forces, this switch provides a stronger push feel and a more pronounced tactile feedback while typing.
Although the forces of the two switches differ, those seeking a similar result could achieve it by selecting a keyboard equipped with switches of similar weight to their preferred one. By choosing switches with comparable actuation and bottom out forces, users can achieve a consistent typing experience across different keyboards.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, both switches have the same travel distance. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel a comparable distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Consequently, you can expect similar results and experiences with regards to the travel distance when using either the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch or the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
The TTC Gold 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 Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 Silver switches have a bassy and low-pitched profile, contributing to a deeper and richer sound during key presses. The sound is characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, these switches have a thocky sound, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means they have a moderate sound level, suitable for most purposes and environments. 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.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are often described as buttery and creamy. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The TTC Gold Brown switches, on the other hand, offer a mild typing experience. They have a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. These switches stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, offering approachable qualities to most users. The Gold Brown switches also have accented and polished qualities, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming and ensuring smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches excel in providing a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. They also offer a buttery and creamy feel, giving users a smooth and uniform typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown switches have a neutral sound profile and a mild feel, providing a more balanced and approachable typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can expect similar results with either switch, as they offer a pleasant and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are an avid gamer seeking a lightning-fast and competitive advantage, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams and shorter travel distance, these switches offer unmatched value and exceptional gaming experience. The G Pro 3.0 Silver also provides a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. Additionally, the switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced switch with a slight satisfying bump and moderate weightiness, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be a suitable option. With a bottom out force of 63 grams, the Gold Brown switch provides a more gentle typing experience. It is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various intents and purposes. The Gold Brown switch also offers options like buttery, accented, and polished, providing different levels of tactility and a polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and TTC Gold Brown switches depends on your specific preferences and requirements.