Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Silent Red are two popular choices when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is widely recognized for its exceptional gaming performance and budget-friendly price. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, these switches offer lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive advantage. The frosted light diffuser enhances the vibrant RGB lighting, creating an illuminating gaming setup. Additionally, the medium-high pitch of the G Pro 3.0 Silver adds an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red, also a linear switch, prioritizes a smooth and quiet typing experience, making it ideal for office environments or shared living spaces. With a muted sound profile and a consistent feel from top to bottom, the Silent Red provides a comfortable and seamless typing experience. Although these general characteristics provide a good starting point for decision-making, let's delve deeper into the specific features of each switch to help you determine the best one for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Silent Red, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in similar characteristics for both switches, including a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, while its translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic benefits from the polycarbonate top housings of both switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Silent Red incorporate nylon. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This choice of material creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housing. Both switches can be expected to provide this characteristic sound experience, as the nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile of each switch.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the difference in housing materials between the top and bottom housings becomes significant. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to the perceived impact and feedback when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Silent Red share similar qualities in their top and bottom housing materials, the distribution of these qualities between the top and bottom of each switch may result in subtle variations in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there is a notable difference in their bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a relatively light bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent Red has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams. However, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the initial force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both. This similarity in actuation force ensures that both switches will provide a similar level of responsiveness. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the ideal choice, as its bottom out force is lighter. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the heavier bottom out force of the TTC Silent Red would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver is considered more traditional, providing a balanced amount of depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Silent Red's 3.7 mm travel distance is shallower, which is becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. Opting for the shorter travel distance can offer a more responsive typing or gaming experience. However, it is worth noting that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in substantial depth. In such cases, the switch with the longer travel distance may be preferred for a more satisfying keypress feel. Overall, both switches provide their own unique travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for key travel depth.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 are known for their bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. This means that they produce a deeper and richer sound during key presses, reminiscent of bass tones. The Silent Red switches, on the other hand, have a muted sound profile. They are designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and Silent Red switches offer a buttery typing experience characterized by a smooth and fluid keystroke. They provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation, ensuring a uniform feel throughout. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are described as having a creamy feel, offering a silky sensation when typing. This could be due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used. On the other hand, the Silent Red switches are also mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and TTC Silent Red switches offer different subjective qualities, but both deliver exceptional performance in their respective areas. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches excel in providing a bassy and thocky sound profile, along with a buttery and creamy typing experience. With the added bonus of vibrant RGB lighting, they offer an exhilarating gaming experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red switches prioritize a muted sound profile and comfort with their padded bottom-out feel. They are perfect for environments where noise is a concern. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you're a gamer looking for a switch that provides lightning-fast and responsive keystrokes, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the one for you. With its light 50g bottom out force and shorter travel distance, this switch offers unmatched value and will give you a competitive advantage in gaming. Additionally, its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile adds an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience for office or shared living space use, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is the perfect choice. With its medium-heavy 63.5g bottom out force and muted sound profile, this switch delivers a seamless and comfortable typing feel. It provides a buttery and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Silent Red will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
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