Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, two options worth considering are the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver. The Box Jade switch is known for providing a medium-heavy typing experience accompanied by a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on them a delightful experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is specifically designed for gamers. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches offer lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive advantage. In addition, the vibrant RGB lighting and medium-high pitch add an exhilarating visual and auditory element to gaming sessions. Both switches have their unique strengths, offering a distinct typing or gaming experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver both share polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting, making it visually appealing for users who prioritize aesthetics in their keyboard setup.
However, when it comes to the nylon bottom housing, the two switches differ. The Box Jade's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound profile, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities to the Box Jade and ensuring a deeper and fuller sound profile.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, they both play a crucial role in the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, providing the user with a tactile sensation when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key, making it equally important for users who appreciate the auditory feedback of their keystrokes.
In summary, the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver share a polycarbonate top housing that enhances sound quality and is suitable for RGB lighting. However, they differ in terms of the material used for the bottom housings, with the Box Jade utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound while the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a similar experience. Both top and bottom housings significantly influence the sound and feel of the switches, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Kailh Box Jade switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch, which requires 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that the Box Jade switch will require a slightly heavier press to register a keystroke.
When it comes to bottom out force, the Box Jade switch has a slightly higher force requirement as well, with 60 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch's 50 grams. This implies that the Box Jade switch will have a more substantial and satisfying typing experience, as it will require a firmer push to fully bottom out the key.
In terms of weight preference, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch more suitable. This lighter actuation force and bottom out force can be beneficial for long typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Kailh Box Jade switch's slightly heavier forces.
It is worth noting that while the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches differ, both will still offer a responsive typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can select the switch with the desired actuation and bottom out force that aligns with their typing style and preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it is evident that they have different distances. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the G Pro 3.0 Silver falls into the more conventional travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Box Jade is slightly shallower at 3.6 mm. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, particularly for gamers seeking faster response times. Thus, if responsiveness is a priority, the Box Jade with its shorter travel distance may be the preferable choice. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to be too abrupt and may prefer the depth provided by the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preferences and which type of travel distance caters to an individual's specific needs and comfort.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Jade switch offers a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce crisp clicks and resemble the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. The sound during key presses is deeper and richer, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as "thocky," meaning it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is characterized as having an accented feel. It provides a medium tactile experience, offering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Typing on these switches gives an invigorating sensation, with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Typing on them feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade provides a high-pitched and crunchy sound with an accented and invigorating feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound with a buttery and creamy feel. Both switches deliver unique typing experiences tailored towards different preferences. Considering your desired sound profile and tactile preference, you can confidently choose between these two switches to enhance your keyboard typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches offer crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, providing a satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prioritize gaming and want a switch that offers lightning-fast responsiveness and a competitive advantage, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is the way to go. With a shorter travel distance and vibrant RGB lighting, these switches deliver an exceptional gaming experience.
When it comes to sound, the Box Jade switches produce a high-pitched sound and a crunchy feedback, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer a bassy and low-pitched tone. If you prefer a sharper and crisp sound profile, the Box Jade is the better option. However, if you enjoy a deeper and richer sound during key presses, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches provide that bass-heavy and thocky auditory element.
In terms of feel, the Box Jade switches offer an accented and invigorating typing sensation with a medium level of tactility. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches provide a smooth and buttery keystroke experience. If you prefer a tactile feedback that is not overpowering but still noticeable, go for the Box Jade. However, if you want a seamless and effortless typing sensation, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer a creamy and buttery feel.
Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch depends on your priorities. Consider whether you value a medium-heavy typing experience with clicky sound and tactility or if you prioritize gaming with lightning-fast responsiveness and immersive lighting effects. Take into account the sound profiles and tactile feedback that each switch offers to ensure the most satisfying typing or gaming experience.
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