Kailh Berry vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth considering are the Kailh Berry and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White. The Berry switches are known for their linear feel with a hefty typing experience. They offer a springy sensation and a chalk-like texture that adds to the overall typing experience. Additionally, their sound profile is fairly deep, providing a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White switches from Gateron's G Pro series are designed with delicate typists in mind. These budget-friendly switches offer an incredibly light actuation force of only 38g, ensuring effortless and sensitive keystrokes. The G Pro Whites also feature a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter RGB lighting, and their medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches share some similarities in terms of their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiff nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by these switches. Additionally, both switches feature clear housings, making them suitable for use with RGB lighting.
However, the two switches differ in their choice of materials for the bottom housing. The Berry switch incorporates nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for greater sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, leading to a similar deep and full sound profile.
It is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are experienced differently when using these switches. The bottom housing primarily influences the "bottom-out" sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, while both switches may have similarities in sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the overall typing experience may differ slightly between the two.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, it becomes evident that there are notable differences between the two. The actuation force of the Berry switch is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare with the G Pro 3.0 White switch, which has an actuation force of 38 grams. However, it is safe to assume that the G Pro 3.0 White switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Berry switch.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White switch has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is significantly lighter. This implies that the Berry switch provides a more substantial and forceful typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a relatively lighter touch.
Considering weight preferences, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 White switch. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces make it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, those seeking a more robust and substantial typing feel may gravitate towards the Berry switch, with its heavier bottom out force.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Berry switch remains unknown, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a lighter touch with lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, the Berry switch provides a more forceful and substantial typing experience with a higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding the typing experience and desired force exertion.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, with the Berry being the shorter option. This makes them suitable for those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance too abrupt and prefer a switch with more depth. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and whether one prefers a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White for $3.27.
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 is best described as having a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. This means that the switch produces a deeper and richer tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch has a clacky sound profile, which means it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the G Pro White switch has a subdued sound signature, offering a more subtle sound compared to most switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the type of keyboard board and keycaps used. If you want a similar sound experience, both switches provide satisfying auditory feedback, but the Berry gives a deeper and richer tone while the G Pro White offers a sharp and snappy sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch provides a textured typing experience, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a range of tactile experiences. It is described as creamy, which means it provides a smooth and buttery typing experience. This sensation is achieved through the application of lubricant at the factory or specific materials used. Typing on a creamy switch feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, resulting in a silky sensation. Additionally, the G Pro White switch is also described as easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle. These descriptors imply that the switch offers a low-impact and responsive typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. If you're looking for a similar feel, the G Pro White offers a wide range of qualities that cater to different preferences, while the Berry provides a textured typing experience.
Considering the available information, it's clear that both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offer unique subjective qualities. The Berry switch is known for its springy feel and chalk-like texture when typing, along with a deep and rich sound profile. On the other hand, the G Pro White switch provides an incredibly light actuation force, creating an effortless and sensitive typing experience. In terms of sound, it offers a clacky sound profile with a medium-high pitch, coupled with a satisfying auditory feedback. If you're looking for a typing experience that is both textured and springy with a deep sound profile, the Berry switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a smooth and buttery feel with an easy-to-press and feathery touch, the G Pro White switch is a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences for sound and feel, as both provide distinct and enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a springy feel and chalk-like texture, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a hefty typing experience with a bottom out force of 70 grams. They have a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, which provides a deep and rich sound during key presses. Furthermore, the Berry switch is textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed.
On the other hand, if you are a delicate typist who prefers an incredibly light actuation force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches offer effortless and sensitive keystrokes. The G Pro 3.0 White has a clacky and neutral sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. The switch also offers a creamy and easy-to-press feel, allowing for a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal force required.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch depends on your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and feel. Consider whether you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a textured feel and deep sound (Berry) or an incredibly light typing experience with a creamy feel and clacky sound (G Pro 3.0 White). By understanding your preferences, you can select the switch that will enhance your overall typing and gaming experience.
Mentioned in this article
