Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Gold Red Pro are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique advantages for different types of users. The G Pro 3.0 Silver stands out for its lightning-fast responsiveness and exceptional gaming experience, thanks to a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. With vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch, this switch is perfect for gamers looking for a competitive edge without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility and ease of press, making it suitable for a wide range of settings, from gaming to office work. Its neutral sound signature and adaptability make it a harmonious choice for any auditory environment. 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Gold Red Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the switches. Both switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel due to the shared polycarbonate top housing material.
In terms of bottom housing material, the G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Gold Red Pro also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastics as bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a satisfying typing experience with a unique sound profile that enhances the overall feel of the switches.
The division of housing materials in the switches allows for a nuanced typing experience. While the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing the key. This split between top and bottom housing materials in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and TTC Gold Red Pro ensures a well-balanced combination that contributes to a overall satisfying typing experience for users looking for a distinct sound profile and feel in their switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, we can see that the G Pro 3.0 Silver is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gold Red Pro's 43 grams. However, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Silver is 50 grams, while the Gold Red Pro's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a lighter typing experience overall. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gold Red Pro, as the actuation force is slightly heavier. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique feel, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver being lighter and the Gold Red Pro potentially providing a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. The 3.4 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver may provide a quicker response time, which is ideal for gamers looking for fast actions. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro's 3.8 mm travel distance may offer a more substantial and deliberate keypress, which could be preferred by those who want a more pronounced feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Gold Red 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 Red 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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, giving an immersive auditory experience during gaming sessions. The switches produce a thocky sound that adds to the overall gaming ambiance. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a more neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various environments without being too loud or too soft. Both switches provide a satisfying sound experience, but the G Pro 3.0 Silver leans towards a deeper and richer tone compared to the Gold Red Pro's more balanced sound.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is described as providing a buttery and creamy typing experience, offering smooth and effortless keystrokes. These switches ensure a seamless and uniform sensation while typing, enhancing the overall tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro switch is polished and silky, providing a refined and smooth key travel experience with reduced friction. The Gold Red Pro switch also offers a milder and more subtle typing feel, catering to a wider range of users with its gentle resistance and light typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Silver excels in providing a bass-heavy and thocky sound profile along with a buttery and creamy typing experience, ideal for gamers looking for a more immersive and satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro switch provides a more balanced and neutral sound signature with a polished and silky feel, making it a versatile option for various typing environments. Depending on individual preferences, either switch can deliver a high-quality typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver leaning towards a richer sound and smoother keystrokes, while the Gold Red Pro offers a more refined and adaptable typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer excellent performance and value in their respective categories, ensuring that users will achieve a premium typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, your choice should align with your specific preferences and needs. If you are a gamer looking for a budget-friendly option that provides lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting, the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value versatility and a neutral sound signature that is harmonious in any environment, the Gold Red Pro could be the perfect fit. Consider the bottom-out force of each switch and how it aligns with your typing or gaming style. In the end, the decision between these two switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and the overall experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
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