Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Iron are two exceptional linear keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics for typing enthusiasts. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow excels in providing a budget-friendly option with a polished, high-pitched, and creamy typing experience. With a bouncy type feel, this switch appeals to those who enjoy a resonant sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Iron stands out with its pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, making it easy to press for swift and fatigue-free typing sessions. Its buttery smooth travel adds a touch of pleasure to each keystroke, appealing to both enthusiasts and daily users seeking precision. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the TTC Iron's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. The use of polycarbonate in the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's top housing results in a more resonant sound, particularly ideal for those who prioritize a clear and distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the TTC Iron offers a unique sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, providing a more subtle typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the TTC Iron also utilizes POM for its bottom housing, offering a similar deep sound profile that is relatively more muted. While both switches provide a pleasing sound experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's nylon bottom housing may offer a slightly rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the TTC Iron.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the TTC Iron contributes to their unique sound profiles. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound and a nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound, the TTC Iron employs POM for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a consistent deep and muted sound profile. Whether you prefer a crisper typing experience with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or a deeper sound with the TTC Iron, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Iron linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, while the TTC Iron has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow with its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces. In contrast, individuals who favor a lighter touch and smoother keystrokes may lean towards the TTC Iron switch for its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether one 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 Iron linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches offer relatively short travel distances, making them suitable for gamers looking for fast response times. However, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Iron. Gamers who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, while those who enjoy a bit more depth to their keystrokes may opt for the TTC Iron. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing or gaming style.
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 Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 Yellow linear switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch offers a clacky sound signature that is sharp, bright, and percussive. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow leaning towards a higher pitch and the Iron switch delivering a more pronounced clacky sound. It ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two switches, as both offer unique auditory experiences.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is described as polished and creamy, providing a smooth and refined typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. On the other hand, the TTC Iron switch is known for being easy-to-press and mild, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing feel, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow focusing on a polished and buttery sensation while the Iron switch emphasizes an easy-to-press and low-impact typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and TTC Iron linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow excels in providing a high-pitched and polished typing experience, while the TTC Iron delivers a clacky and easy-to-press sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer satisfying options for enthusiasts and everyday users alike. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer the higher-pitched, polished feel of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the clacky, easy-to-press nature of the TTC Iron switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched, resonant sound profile with a polished, creamy feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a clacky, neutral sound profile with an easy-to-press, mild feel, the TTC Iron could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make your decision based on your individual typing preferences and needs.
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