Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch and you value a light and effortless typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White may be the perfect choice for you. With an actuation force of only 38g, these linear switches offer an incredibly delicate touch, ensuring keystrokes that are both effortless and sensitive. The frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, and the medium-high pitch offers a satisfying auditory feedback. Best of all, the Gateron G Pro White is budget-friendly, allowing you to experience a premium typing feel without breaking the bank. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch and appreciate a comfortable typing experience, the TTC Silent Brown is worth considering. With a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, these switches provide a satisfying feedback for typists. Additionally, the Silent Brown switches have a muted sound profile, which can be appealing for those who prefer a more subdued 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
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the TTC Silent Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches offer similar sound profiles and aesthetic appeal when it comes to their top housings.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings, the G Pro 3.0 White utilizes a nylon material, while the Silent Brown also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer composition. It absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches elicit a similar typing experience with regards to the bottom housing, offering a more resonant and satisfying sound when typing on them.
It is important to note that the different housing materials of the top and bottom housings in each switch do have an impact on the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by the bottom housing material are more noticeable when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This demonstrates how the specific combination of housing materials in each switch contributes to the overall typing experience and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are distinct differences. The G Pro 3.0 White switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a gentle touch. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial push feel during typing. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the G Pro 3.0 White switch has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Silent Brown switch requires a higher force of 63.5 grams. Therefore, the Silent Brown switch offers a medium-heavy resistance when bottoming out compared to the lighter bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 White. Ultimately, if one prefers a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the G Pro 3.0 White switch would be the ideal choice, while those seeking a more substantial and resistant typing feel could opt for the Silent Brown switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Comparing the two, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 White has a slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference. The G Pro 3.0 White with its 4 mm travel distance is more aligned with traditional switch designs, providing a deeper keypress. On the other hand, the Silent Brown's shorter 3.8 mm travel distance is preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Silent Brown is the way to go, while if you prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke, the G Pro 3.0 White is the better option. Overall, both switches offer unique benefits, and selecting between the two will rely on individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White for $3.27.
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a medium-high pitch with a satisfying auditory feedback. It can be described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This crisp and bright sound adds a percussive element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch has a muted sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The Silent Brown switches minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a more discrete typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors like the choice of the keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a creamy and easy-to-press typing experience. The switch has a smooth and buttery sensation due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each keystroke melting into the next. Additionally, the easy-to-press nature of the G Pro White switch means it requires minimal force to activate, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the TTC Silent Brown switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. It offers a gentle typing experience with little resistance, making it approachable for most users. The switch's smooth and refined finish, possibly resulting from materials or factory lubing, reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
Taking all available information into account, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and TTC Silent Brown switches have distinct qualities. For sound, the G Pro White has a clacky and medium-high pitch sound, while the Silent Brown offers a muted sound profile. In terms of feel, the G Pro White provides a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, if a quiet typing experience is preferred, both switches can provide similar results in terms of sound, albeit with slight variations in overall feel and experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a delicate typist looking for an effortless and sensitive typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its incredibly light actuation force of only 45 grams, this switch ensures that keystrokes are effortless and require minimal force. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a bright RGB lighting experience with its frosted light diffuser, and the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback. Overall, this switch is budget-friendly yet delivers a premium typing feel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch would suit you best. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, this switch provides a slightly heavier touch compared to the G Pro 3.0 White. However, it offers a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise commonly associated with mechanical keyboards. If a softer and quieter typing experience is important to you, the Silent Brown switch would be an excellent option.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prioritize a lighter and effortless typing experience or a more tactile and muted sound profile, both switches offer their unique advantages. Consider your typing needs and make your decision accordingly.
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