Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Box Jade is perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and satisfying tactility. With crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, these switches provide a truly invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown, from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series, offers an economical solution without compromising on quality. These switches deliver a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, carefully crafted to provide a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow. With a frosted light diffuser, the G Pro Brown enhances your RGB lighting and creates an immersive visual experience. Additionally, it offers a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. Both switches have their unique qualities to enhance your typing experience; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that allows for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from both switches' polycarbonate top housings.
However, the switches differ in terms of their nylon bottom housing. The Box Jade's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, but it is not explicitly mentioned how this affects the sound profile. Nonetheless, it can be inferred that the G Pro 3.0 Brown's nylon bottom housing contributes to a similar deeper and fuller sound as its counterpart.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, the bottom housing of each switch plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing in both switches contribute to the sound when pressing down on a key, creating a distinct tactile experience. Conversely, the top housing, made of polycarbonate in both cases, influences the sound when letting go of a key. This means that the sound and feel of the switches will vary depending on whether the user is actively pressing the key or releasing it.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, which affects the sound and aesthetics, particularly when RGB lighting is involved. They also feature nylon bottom housings that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. However, the specifics regarding the impact of the nylon bottom housing differ between the switches. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials creates a unique typing experience for each switch, with the top and bottom housings each playing a distinct role.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. In terms of actuation force, the Box Jade requires 50 grams of force, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires slightly more at 55 grams. Both switches fall under the medium weight category, offering a balanced typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box Jade requires 60 grams of force, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 63 grams. While the difference may seem negligible, some users may notice a slightly heavier feeling when bottoming out with the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch.
Considering weight preferences, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Box Jade switch due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter weight allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch, as its slightly higher forces provide a tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, whether one switch is lighter or heavier than the other depends on personal preference. Both the Box Jade and the G Pro 3.0 Brown switches offer medium actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a balanced typing experience, but with slight variations that cater to individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is considered shorter compared to the more traditional 4 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Brown. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making it favorable for gaming scenarios. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Box Jade comes in at $5.50 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 Box Jade switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound. The high-pitched nature of these switches produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which is preferred by those who do not enjoy rich and bassy sound profiles. Additionally, the crunchy sound of the Box Jade switches is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound profile of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile sensation. The accented tactile switch provides a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This means that the Box Jade switches offer a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. Moreover, the invigorating feel of these switches offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches are described as easy-to-press and mild. These switches offer gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. The light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Overall, the G Pro Brown switches offer a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Additionally, these switches are described as stepped, meaning they feel milder compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They provide some pre-travel and/or post-travel, adding to the overall typing experience.
Based on the available information, the Kailh Box Jade switches offer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and crunchy tactile bumps. They provide high-pitched sounds and an invigorating, accented feel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches offer a subtle tactile sensation with an easy-to-press and mild feel. While there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the G Pro Brown switches, their frosted light diffuser ensures brighter RGB lighting, enhancing the visual experience. Overall, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a prominent tactile sensation and high-pitched sound, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be the recommended choice. However, if you prefer a subtle tactile sensation, easy key presses, and a low-impact typing feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and strong tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches are perfect for you. With their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, typing on these switches will provide a satisfying and immersive experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle and easy-to-press typing feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches would be an excellent choice. These switches offer a subtle tactile sensation that complements your typing flow without overpowering it. Additionally, the G Pro Brown switches feature a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory feedback. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for typing experience and sound.
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