Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct experiences for users. The Box Jade is the ideal choice if you crave a clicky sound profile and a medium-heavy typing experience with satisfying tactility. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make typing on these switches a delight. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White from Gateron's G Pro series is perfect for those who prefer a more sensitive and effortless typing experience. With an incredibly light actuation force of only 38g, these linear switches ensure delicate and responsive keystrokes. The G Pro White also boasts a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory feedback, and its frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages; 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
50g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White have similar housing materials, with both switches featuring polycarbonate top housing. This material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its translucency also makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. Furthermore, the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a clearer and more resonant sound. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when comparing the two switches.
However, the bottom housing materials of the Box Jade and the G Pro 3.0 White differ. The Box Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switch. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which shares similar properties to the top housing. Although both materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while the top housing of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White is made of the same material and offers similar benefits in terms of sound and aesthetics, their bottom housing materials differ. The Box Jade utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the G Pro 3.0 White uses a polycarbonate bottom housing that shares characteristics with its top housing. Understanding the role of each housing material can help users choose a switch that best suits their preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, it is clear that they have distinct differences. The Kailh Box Jade switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams, compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch's actuation force of 38 grams. This means that the Box Jade requires slightly more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the G Pro 3.0 White. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Jade switch has a higher weight with 60 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for easier keystrokes, which can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue is a concern. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Jade switch would be ideal for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. The higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push feel, offering a satisfying tactility for those who prefer it.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, it is worth noting that both switches offer a similar range of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for a wide variety of users.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 White has a travel distance of 4 mm. The G Pro 3.0 White has a more traditional travel distance, while the Box Jade is slightly shorter. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Box Jade a favorable option in that aspect. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more hearty depth when pressing down on a key, the G Pro 3.0 White with its longer travel distance may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 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 switches are known for their high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches offer a clacky and neutral sound. This means they produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp and bright quality. The actuation force requirement is moderate, making it suitable for various purposes. While the Box Jade switches provide a more rich and bassy sound, the G Pro 3.0 White switches offer a more subdued sound in comparison. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used, so your overall sound experience may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade switches are described as accented and invigorating. These switches offer a medium tactile experience, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They have a moderate to firm actuation force, resulting in a snappy and reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches offer various feel qualities. They can be described as creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle. Creamy switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, while easy-to-press switches provide gentle resistance, requiring minimal force to activate. Feathery switches are exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue. Mild switches offer a gentle typing experience in the middle-ground zone, and silky switches enhance overall smoothness. Lastly, subtle switches have a gentle resistance suitable for shared spaces. With these characteristics, the G Pro 3.0 White switches cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Based on the information provided, the Kailh Box Jade switches and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Box Jade switches are best suited for those who desire a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactile bumps. Their crisp clicks and crunchy bumps provide a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White switches are designed for delicate typists who prefer a light and effortless typing experience. These switches have a low actuation force, a variety of feel options, and offer a satisfactory auditory feedback. Both switches provide unique qualities and experiences, ensuring a personalized typing journey. However, it is important to consider other factors such as board and keycaps to fully customize and enhance the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be the perfect choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a satisfying resistance while typing. The Box Jade switches are known for their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, creating an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and effortless typing experience with a brighter RGB lighting, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches would be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches offer easy-to-press keys and a creamy typing feel. The G Pro 3.0 White switches are designed for delicate typists and provide a satisfying auditory feedback with their medium-high pitch sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
