Kailh Box Navy vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black stand out as popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Box Navy offers a heavy typing experience with a clicky sound signature and tactile feedback reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards, making it ideal for those who enjoy a crunchy and invigorating typing feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black from Gateron provides a more subdued and silky typing experience with its linear switch design, appealing to individuals looking for a medium-heavy typing feel with a medium-high pitch sound profile. While the Box Navy excels in sharpness and resonance, the G Pro 3.0 Black shines in its creamy and clacky keystrokes. Both switches have their unique strengths and appeal to different preferences, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics can help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, we see that both switches feature a unique combination of materials in their construction. The Box Navy utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and slightly high-pitched sound profile. While both top housings offer distinct sound characteristics, the polycarbonate of the Box Navy may produce a more resonant sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the differences between the two switches become more apparent. The Box Navy features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic composition. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a POM bottom housing that creates a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side. While both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound of the switch, the nylon of the Box Navy may produce a rounder sound compared to the more muted sound of the POM in the G Pro 3.0 Black.
Overall, the combination of the housing materials in each switch plays a crucial role in determining their sound profiles. While the Box Navy and the G Pro 3.0 Black both offer distinctive sounds, the choice between polycarbonate and INK blend top housings, as well as nylon and POM bottom housings, will result in different typing experiences. Whether you prefer a sharper and resonant sound like the Box Navy or a slightly high-pitched and clacky sound like the G Pro 3.0 Black, understanding the impact of these housing materials is key to selecting the switch that best suits your preferences.
Weight
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch both have an actuation force of 60 grams, providing a consistent level of lightness when initiating a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ significantly. The Box Navy has a heavier bottom out force of 90 grams, giving users a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a lighter bottom out force of 70 grams, offering a slightly softer landing when pressing down fully. For those who prefer a heavier push feel, the Box Navy would be the better choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Black would suit users looking for a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, we find that the Box Navy has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a slightly deeper keypress compared to the Box Navy. Typically, shorter travel distances are favored by gamers for quicker response times, while longer travel distances may be preferred by those who appreciate a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black 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 Black for $2.77.
The Kailh Box Navy 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 Navy switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile and a clean, sharp sound reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch provides a clacky and subdued sound, with a sharp, snappy sound when pressed and a more subtle, dampened sound signature overall. The choice between the two switches would depend on whether you prefer a more immersive, sharp sound like the Box Navy or a crisper, more subdued sound like the G Pro 3.0 Black.
When it comes to feel, the Box Navy switch offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience, with a high feedback intensity, pronounced feedback, and a higher actuation force required compared to other switches. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch provides a creamy, silky, and subtle typing feel, characterized by a smooth, buttery experience with minimal resistance and a light typing feel. Depending on your preference for a more tactile, immersive typing experience like the Box Navy or a smoother, effortless typing feel like the G Pro 3.0 Black, you can make an informed decision.
Overall, the Kailh Box Navy and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Box Navy excels in providing a heavy typing experience with a resonant, crunchy sound and sharp, stiff tactile feedback. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black delivers a balanced medium-heavy linear feel with a clacky, subdued sound and a smooth, buttery typing sensation. Depending on whether you prioritize sound signature and tactility or smoother, effortless typing, you can choose between the two switches for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy and tactile typing experience with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, then the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch with a balanced feel and a clacky, yet subdued sound profile, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound signature, and bottom out force, ensuring that you choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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