Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Embark on a gaming odyssey with the Gateron G Pro Silver switches from their budget-friendly G Pro line-up. These switches offer unmatched value, delivering an exceptional gaming experience. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness, giving you a competitive advantage. Illuminate your gaming setup with vibrant RGB lighting, enhanced by the frosted light diffuser, while the medium-high pitch adds an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. Get the ultimate gaming performance without breaking the bank with the Gateron G Pro Silver switches. On the other hand, we have the Silent Brown tactile switches, known for offering a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. These switches are perfect for those who enjoy a "buttery" and mild feel with a polished touch. Moreover, we love the muted sound profile of these switches, ideal for those seeking a more silent 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Silent Brown both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for the top housing if you plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for the illumination to shine through. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, users can expect similar results from both switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Silent Brown incorporate nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to its relative softness and sound-absorbing properties. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings offers a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastic alternatives. While the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key, the qualities of the bottom housing play a significant role in the overall bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, despite using different brands, users can expect similar characteristics and performance in terms of sound profile and typing experience when it comes to the bottom housing of these switches.
In summary, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the TTC Silent Brown share similarities in their housing materials. By utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing, both switches boast a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, with the added benefit of translucency for RGB lighting enthusiasts. On the other hand, nylon is the material of choice for their bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound when typing while absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. Although each switch may vary in terms of brand and design, the shared qualities of the housing materials ensure a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile and overall feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that they have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a difference between the two switches. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is relatively light. On the other hand, the Silent Brown has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy in comparison.
Considering the weight of the switches, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the lighter option. This lighter actuation and bottom out force makes it suitable for those who prefer a smoother and more effortless typing experience. It is particularly beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it reduces the strain on the fingers and allows for greater endurance.
In contrast, the Silent Brown with its medium-heavy bottom out force provides a more substantial typing experience. This means that users who prefer a stronger push feel will find these switches more satisfying to use. The added force required for bottoming out can give a greater tactile feedback and a sense of solidity to each key press. It is suitable for individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feel when typing.
Although the actuation force is the same for both switches, the differing bottom out force provides a notable distinction. Choosing between the two options will ultimately depend on personal preferences. Those seeking a lighter typing experience and greater endurance may prefer the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, while those desiring a more substantial and tactile feel in their typing may lean towards the TTC Silent Brown switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver is considered to be the more traditional option, providing a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Silent Brown offers a slightly shallower feel, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches provide a satisfying key press experience, with the difference in travel distance catering to personal preference. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive and shallower feel, the Silent Brown with its 3.8 mm travel distance would be a suitable choice. Conversely, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the G Pro 3.0 Silver with its 4 mm travel distance would be the preferred option.
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 Silent 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 Silent Brown for $3.68.
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 Silver switches offer a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. This means that when pressed, these switches produce a deep and rich sound that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The lower frequency range adds a satisfying auditory element to gaming sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switches have a muted sound profile. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound produced by the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and TTC Silent Brown switches provide a smooth and fluid typing experience. Both switches can be described as "buttery", offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are also described as "creamy", indicating a smooth and buttery typing experience similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. The Silent Brown switches, in addition to being buttery, are also described as mild and polished. A mild switch offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The polished switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches excel in providing a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, accompanied by a buttery and creamy typing experience. These switches are ideal for gamers looking for lightning-fast responsiveness and an exhilarating auditory element. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switches offer a muted sound profile with a comfortable and buttery typing experience. These switches are perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience without compromising on comfort. While the switches differ in sound and feel, they both deliver excellent quality within their respective categories. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Silent Brown, you can expect similar results in terms of smooth typing and dependable performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritized gaming performance and responsiveness, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches would be a great choice. With their light bottom out force, shorter travel distance, and vibrant RGB lighting, they provide an exceptional gaming experience. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a comfortable typing experience and a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switches would be more suitable. With their light-medium resistance and satisfying rounded tactile bump, these switches provide a pleasant typing sensation. They also offer a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider your primary use (gaming or typing), desired sound profile, and your personal preference for bottom out force, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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