Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and TTC Neptune are both linear switches that offer unique qualities for keyboard enthusiasts to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Silver stands out for its lightning-fast responsiveness, shorter travel distance, vibrant RGB lighting, and medium-high pitch, making it perfect for gamers seeking a competitive edge without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune distinguishes itself with an innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience, akin to the texture of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. With its ultralight build and muted sound signature, the Neptune offers a refined and subdued typing experience. While these general comparisons help in making an initial decision, delving deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch will help determine the best fit for individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Neptune, we can see that they both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Neptune's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. These differences in housing materials ultimately impact the overall typing experience and sound output of each switch.
While the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Neptune have distinct housing materials for their top and bottom, they both offer unique benefits. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Silver allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Neptune provides a unique sound profile that is deep and muted. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Silver absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune contributes to a crisper and higher-pitched sound output. Overall, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their housing materials.
In terms of functionality, the choice of housing material in a switch can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings of a switch mean that the bottom housing plays a greater role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This dual effect of housing materials on the typing experience highlights the importance of selecting the right switch based on individual preferences for sound profile, tactile feedback, and overall typing comfort. Whether opting for the G Pro 3.0 Silver with its mix of polycarbonate and nylon housing or the Neptune with its unique POM and polycarbonate housing, users can expect a personalized typing experience based on their chosen switch's housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the TTC Neptune linear switch with an actuation force of 41 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams, making them equally heavy in that aspect. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly different typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the TTC Neptune, while those who prefer a bit more resistance might opt for the G Pro 3.0 Silver. Overall, both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for extended periods of use, whether for work or gaming.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch have different travel distances. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Neptune has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Silver would offer a faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Neptune with its longer travel distance may provide a more comfortable and steady typing experience for those who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance – whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or prefer a deeper, more deliberate key press.
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 Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune 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 Silver switch is characterized by a bassy and low-pitched profile, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. The thocky nature of these switches enhances the auditory experience, making each keystroke satisfyingly tactile. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch offers a low-pitched, muted sound signature, creating a refined and unobtrusive typing ambiance. The subdued sound quality of the Neptune switch, along with its thocky characteristic, delivers a dampened yet deep sound profile that is pleasing to the ears.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Neptune switches offer a buttery typing experience. The buttery sensation implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. However, the Neptune switch takes it a step further with additional descriptors like gummy and frictionless, offering a unique typing experience reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or effortlessly gliding across keys with minimal resistance. The polished finish of the Neptune switch contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience, further enhancing the overall tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and TTC Neptune switches both excel at providing a buttery typing experience, they offer distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switch leans towards a bassy and thocky sound, adding a tactile element to each keystroke, while the Neptune switch focuses on a muted, subdued sound with a deep thocky quality. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer a premium typing experience that caters to different auditory and tactile preferences. By choosing either of these switches, you can expect a high level of performance and satisfaction in your typing or gaming endeavors.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Neptune linear switches, consider your priorities. If you prioritize a gaming-oriented switch with lightning-fast responsiveness, vibrant RGB lighting, and a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing experience that merges a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a unique springy resistance, alongside a tactile pleasure and muted sound profile, then the TTC Neptune switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize gaming performance or typing comfort in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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