Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct qualities and experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its budget-friendly excellence, providing a linear typing experience with a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy type feel. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switches offer a balanced experience, featuring a satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. These switches have a softer and rounded sound profile, making them generally quieter than most switches. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown switches have similar housing materials, with both featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be effectively showcased in the switch. Therefore, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Gold Brown, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
While the top housing of both switches is made of polycarbonate, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, whereas the Gold Brown employs a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature. It absorbs more sound than harder plastics like polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Therefore, if you prioritize a more resonant and robust typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow with its nylon bottom housing may be the better choice for you.
It's important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switches. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. So, depending on your preferences, you can choose a switch that offers a balance of both qualities or prioritize specific aspects such as the bottom-out sound or the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown switches offer unique sound profiles, allowing users to find the perfect option based on their individual typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Brown's actuation force of 55 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requiring 67 grams and the Gold Brown requiring 63 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be the better choice due to its lighter actuation force. This can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it reduces the strain on the fingers and allows for more comfortable usage. On the other hand, the Gold Brown offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
It's worth noting that while the actuation and bottom out forces differ slightly between the two switches, they fall within the medium range for both. This means that whether one chooses the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Gold Brown, they can expect similar results in terms of force required for keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. In the case of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel and experience the same 4 mm distance traveled. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, as they both provide the same result.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 Yellow linear switch produces a high-pitched clacky sound profile that is sharp and crisp. It offers an immersive auditory experience with clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a rounded sound profile that is generally much softer. While it is not completely silent, it is noticeably quieter than most switches. If you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the better choice. If you prefer a softer and more balanced sound profile, the Gold Brown is the way to go.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a polished and creamy typing experience. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. It offers a sleek and effortless sensation when typing, with the keys gliding smoothly under your fingers. On the other hand, the Gold Brown offers a mild and buttery typing experience. It is a gentle switch that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. It provides a seamless and uniform typing sensation, with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the Gold Brown is described as accented, meaning it offers a prominent level of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a higher-pitched clacky sound profile with a fairly bouncy feel. It provides a polished and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown offers a softer rounded sound profile that is generally much quieter. It has a mild and buttery feel, with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences. If you are looking for a higher-pitched and more resonant sound with a bouncy feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a great option. If you prefer a quieter and more balanced sound with a mild and buttery feel, the Gold Brown is the choice for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is an excellent choice. It offers a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced switch with a medium bottom out force, the TTC Gold Brown is a great option. It provides a slight and satisfying bump, along with a moderate weightiness. The Gold Brown also has a softer sound profile compared to most switches.
In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow produces a high-pitched and resonant sound, which can provide a sharp and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and preferences.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a polished and creamy typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gold Brown provides a mild and buttery typing experience, offering a gentle and uniform sensation with accented tactility.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a bouncy linear switch with a higher-pitched sound and a creamy feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the way to go. If you prefer a balanced switch with a softer sound and a buttery feel, the Gold Brown is the better option. Consider your typing style, sound and feel preferences, and budget when making your decision.