Kailh Berry vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Berry and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown. The Berry switches provide a unique typing experience with their springy feel and chalk-like texture, offering a tactile sensation unlike any other. They also boast a deep sound profile, categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switches from Gateron offer an economical solution without compromising on quality. These switches provide a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, featuring a gentle bump that enhances typing flow. Additionally, they come with a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more immersive RGB lighting. The G Pro 3.0 Brown switches also deliver a medium-high pitched sound, adding an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown both share polycarbonate as the material used for their top housing. This means that they will have similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for RGB lighting enthusiasts who want their switches to shine brightly.
While both switches have polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housings. The Kailh Berry uses a nylon bottom housing, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its relatively softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will provide a distinct audio experience compared to switches with harder plastics for their bottom housings.
It's important to note that the qualities brought about by the different housing materials are split between the top and bottom of each switch. When pressing down on either the Kailh Berry or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more pronounced impact on the sound produced when the key is released. Therefore, while the switches may have similar top housings, the choice of bottom housing material can still play a significant role in the overall typing experience for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Berry switch is unavailable, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires a lighter force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Berry switch. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Berry switch has a heavier force of 70 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly lighter force of 63 grams.
In terms of weight, some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows for longer typing periods, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may prefer switches with heavier actuation forces. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be a lighter option for actuation force compared to the Berry switch. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Berry switch is heavier.
Overall, if one prefers a lighter actuation force and a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch would be the preferred choice. However, if a heavier bottom out force is desired, the Kailh Berry linear switch provides a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In comparing these two switches, it's clear that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown has a longer travel distance than the Kailh Berry. A travel distance of 4 mm is considered to be the more traditional option, providing a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Kailh Berry's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm offers a more shallow and quicker response. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a more responsive and quicker feel, the Kailh Berry is the better choice. However, if you enjoy a more substantial and deep key press, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown would be the more suitable option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown 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 Brown 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 switches are known for their low-pitched and bassy characteristics. These switches offer a deeper and mellow tone during key presses, resembling the richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches do not have any specific sound descriptors provided in the information. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, it is possible to achieve a similar sound profile with the G Pro 3.0 Brown switches by carefully selecting the keyboard components.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry switches are described as having a Textured feel. This means that these switches have noticeable friction when pressed, providing a different tactile sensation during typing. Some users may prefer this subtle texture, while others might prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches offer an Easy-to-press feeling. These switches have a light actuation force, requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The G Pro Brown switches also have a Mild characteristic, offering a gentle typing experience that stands in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, they have a Stepped feel, indicating that they have two stages of tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Kailh Berry linear switches are known for their hefty and springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture. They produce a fairly deep and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switches offer an easy-to-press feeling with a gentle bump that enhances the typing flow. They provide a medium-high pitch sound for satisfying auditory feedback. While the specific sound descriptors for the G Pro Brown switches are unknown, it is possible to achieve similar results by carefully selecting the keyboard components. In terms of feel, the Berry switches offer a textured experience, while the G Pro Brown switches provide an easy-to-press and mild feel with a stepped characteristic. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on the individual's preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a distinct springy feel and a fairly deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a satisfying resistance when typing. Additionally, the Berry switches offer a low-pitched and bassy sound, adding to the overall typing experience. However, if you prefer a more gentle and effortless typing feel with easy-to-press switches and a mild tactile sensation, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch would be a better fit. With a bottom out force of 63 grams, these switches require minimal force to activate and reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Furthermore, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switches offer a medium-high pitch sound and have a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preferred typing experience, whether you prioritize a springy and textured feel or a gentle and low-impact feel.
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