Kailh Box Royal vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Box Royal is praised for its incredibly tactile nature, providing a sharp and binary tactility that is perfect for those seeking an aggressive typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black from Gateron stands out for its premium quality at a budget-friendly price, offering a smooth and linear feel with a balanced medium-heavy weight. While the Box Royal boasts a higher-pitched sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a medium-high pitch with the added bonus of vibrant RGB lighting effects. 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, the key difference lies in the material used in the top housing. The Box Royal utilizes a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky. This difference in top housing material leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing on these switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Box Royal and the G Pro 3.0 Black use different materials to achieve unique sound profiles. The Box Royal's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, complementing the characteristics of the top housing material. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing creates a pleasing and unique, yet relatively more muted sound profile. These differences in bottom housing materials further contribute to the overall typing experience and sound output of each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience is similar. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on the materials used in the housings, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While the specific qualities of the sound may differ, users can expect a nuanced and enjoyable typing experience from both switches based on the unique properties of their housing materials.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch with a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 70 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in that aspect. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Kailh Box Royal may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black may be preferred for its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is evident that the Box Royal has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Royal's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers looking for fast-paced action. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper, more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial feel to their switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance offering speed and agility, and the longer travel distance providing a more tactile typing experience.
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 Royal 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Royal switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch offer distinct auditory experiences. The Box Royal is characterized by a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound that is bright and percussive. The G Pro 3.0 Black also offers a subdued sound option for those seeking a more subtle auditory experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences and typing environments.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch also provide contrasting tactile sensations. The Box Royal switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each keypress. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as creamy and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances the overall smoothness of typing. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a subtle typing feel with gentle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offer different sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Box Royal provides a high-pitched sound with sharp tactility, while the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a clacky sound with creamy and silky typing feel. Depending on whether you prefer a more aggressive tactility and higher-pitched sound or a smoother, buttery typing experience, you can choose between these two switches to achieve your desired keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a highly tactile and aggressive typing experience with a higher pitched sound profile, the Box Royal would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a medium-high pitch sound profile, along with the added bonus of RGB lighting effects, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be more suitable. Both switches offer a medium-heavy typing feel at 70 grams, so the decision really boils down to whether you prioritize tactility or linearity in your typing experience. Ultimately, try to get a feel for both switches if possible to see which one aligns best with your preferences.
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