Kailh Berry vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, both offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Berry switch is praised for its springy feel and chalk-like texture while producing a deep sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a hefty typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch stands out for its premium quality at an affordable price point, with a medium-heavy feel due to its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. Additionally, it offers a medium-high pitch sound profile and enhanced RGB lighting effects with a frosted light diffuser. Ultimately, the Berry switch appeals to those looking for a textured and low-pitched typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Black switch caters to individuals seeking a clacky, creamy, and subdued 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
N/A
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Berry's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer nature which enhances resonance. This makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a satisfyingly clacky sound that is pointed and high-pitched but not overly sharp. Both housing materials offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
The differences continue with the bottom housing materials of the two switches. The Berry's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing creates a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted. While both bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience, the choice between nylon and POM will ultimately depend on personal preference in sound and feel.
Despite the variations in housing materials, the impact of these materials on the typing experience can be felt in both switches. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. This split of qualities between the top and bottom housing highlights the importance of selecting the right combination of materials to achieve the desired sound and typing feel for each switch. Ultimately, both the Kailh Berry and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch have some key differences. The Kailh Berry has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it is a light switch that allows for quick typing with minimal effort. In comparison, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier and providing a more tactile typing experience. Both switches, however, have a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that while the typing feel may differ slightly between the two switches due to their actuation force, they will ultimately provide a similar typing experience in terms of resistance when fully pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is evident that the Berry has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm while the G Pro 3.0 Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 3.6 mm travel distance of the Berry offers a more shallow press, making it ideal for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a slightly deeper press, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial key feel. Both options offer a different typing experience, with the Berry providing a quicker response and the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is described as clacky and subdued, producing a sharp and crisp sound while also offering a more subtle and dampened sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, with the Berry switch catering to those who prefer a deeper tone, and the G Pro 3.0 Black switch appealing to users who enjoy a sharper sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a textured typing experience, with noticeable friction when pressed, which can enhance tactile feedback for some users. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch provides a creamy and silky typing sensation, offering a smooth and buttery feel that allows for effortless keystrokes. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is also described as having a subtle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces where a quieter typing experience is preferred. When it comes to choosing between these two switches based on feel, it ultimately boils down to individual preference for texture and resistance.
Overall, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Berry switch provides a springy and chalk-like typing experience with a deep and bassy sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a premium medium-heavy feel with a balanced 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, accompanied by a medium-high pitch sound and a smoother, creamier typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will come down to personal preference for sound, feel, and even visual aesthetics with the frosted light diffuser on the G Pro 3.0 Black switch. However, both switches are excellent choices for enthusiasts seeking high-quality linear switches for their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a chalk-like texture and deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you desire a smoother and creamier typing experience with a medium-high pitch sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is the way to go. Ultimately, your preference for typing feel and sound profile will determine which switch aligns best with your needs and preferences. So, take these factors into account to make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and requirements.
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