Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown Pro offer distinct experiences for users. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow, a linear switch, is budget-friendly and delivers a high-pitched clacky sound profile with a bouncy type feel, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro, a tactile switch, provides subtle, nuanced feedback with a gentle tactile bump that allows for immersive typing without overwhelming noise. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience, the Gold Brown Pro caters to individuals who value understated tactile experiences and minimal distraction. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and TTC Gold Brown Pro both feature a polycarbonate top housing, giving them a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for better light diffusion. Both switches share these characteristics in their top housing, ensuring a similar sound experience when typing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of sound.
While both switches offer similar sound profiles due to their shared polycarbonate top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials may result in subtle variations in typing feel and sound. The impact of the bottom housing material on the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the impact of the top housing material on the sound when releasing a key, should be taken into consideration when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and TTC Gold Brown Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
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 Pro tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Brown Pro's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is also higher at 67 grams, while the Gold Brown Pro's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier overall feel compared to the Gold Brown Pro. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Brown Pro. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with 4 mm being the most common and 3.8 mm being slightly shorter. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Gold Brown Pro with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, producing sharp and crisp sounds with each press, making it quite distinct and noticeable. In comparison, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch provides a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile, giving a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is gentle and subtle, ensuring minimal distraction during typing sessions. Depending on your preference for sound profiles, whether it be the higher-pitched clacky sound of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the subdued thocky sound of the Gold Brown Pro, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that can enhance your typing experience.
As for feel, both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gold Brown Pro switches offer a polished typing experience, ensuring smooth and refined key travel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is described as both polished and creamy, offering reduced friction and a buttery typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro switch provides a silky and subtle typing experience, with a mild and stepped tactile feedback that is gentle and approachable. Whether you prefer the creamy and polished feel of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the silky and subtle sensation of the Gold Brown Pro, both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience that caters to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch leans towards a higher-pitched sound profile and a creamier feel, the Gold Brown Pro switch provides a more subdued sound profile and a silky typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer budget-friendly options that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style, but rest assured, both switches offer quality and performance that can satisfy your mechanical keyboard needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider the following factors. Choose the G Pro 3.0 Yellow if you appreciate a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, and a polished and creamy feel for a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Gold Brown Pro if you prefer a switch with an undefined bottom out force, a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, and a polished, silky, mild, subtle, or stepped feel for a more understated and immersive typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel.