Kailh Box Royal vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White offer two distinctly different experiences. The Box Royal is known for its aggressive and sharp tactility, making it a top choice for those seeking a highly tactile typing experience. Additionally, its higher-pitched sound profile adds a unique auditory element to each keystroke. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White caters to delicate typists with its incredibly light actuation force of 38g, ensuring effortless and sensitive keystrokes. With a frosted light diffuser, it also allows for brighter RGB lighting while providing a satisfyingly medium-high pitch. Both switches have their unique advantages, but let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White differ significantly. The Box Royal features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 White has a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucent property of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, which adds to its aesthetic appeal.
Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which reinforces the deep and full sound profile characteristic of nylon due to its sound-absorbing properties. The softer plastic composition of nylon results in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of the bottom housing, the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White offer similar typing experiences with deep and full sounds.
It should be noted that the housing materials of the top and bottom of a switch play distinct roles in the overall sound profile. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Consequently, the differences in material between the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White's top housing will result in contrasting sound profiles during key release. The nylon top housing of the Box Royal produces a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White creates a sharper and crisper sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, there are notable differences. The Box Royal has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly heavier than the G Pro 3.0 White's 38 grams. This means that the Box Royal requires a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Royal is again heavier with 70 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 White's 45 grams. This indicates that the Box Royal provides a more substantial typing experience, as it necessitates a greater amount of force to fully press down the keys. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In summary, while the Box Royal is on the medium-heavy side, the G Pro 3.0 White falls into the light category.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, it can be observed that the Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 White has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Royal. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 White is more in line with the traditional travel distance, providing a satisfying depth for those who prefer it. On the other hand, the Box Royal's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a shorter experience, which is favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences - those who prioritize responsiveness may opt for the shorter travel distance of the Box Royal, while those who prefer a deeper feel may favor the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 White.
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 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
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is characterized by a sharp and binary tactility, making it one of the most tactile switches available. This means that when pressed, there is a distinct and intense tactile bump that can be felt with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch does not have a tactile bump and is described as easy-to-press, feathery, and creamy. It offers a smooth and low-impact typing experience, with a light actuation force of only 38g.
In terms of sound, the Box Royal has a relatively higher pitched sound profile. It produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which may be preferred by those who do not like richer and bassier sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 White, on the other hand, has a clacky sound, described as sharp, snappy, and percussive. It offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 White can also produce a more subdued sound compared to most switches.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch provides an aggressive and intense tactility with a relatively higher pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch offers a smooth and low-impact typing experience with a clacky sound. While they have different characteristics, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for users. It is important to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between these switches. Keep in mind that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used. Regardless of the switch chosen, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a nearly aggressive tactility and a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be your best choice. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more subdued sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be a great option. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches offer an easy-to-press typing experience and a medium-high pitch sound feedback. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would depend on your preference for tactility, sound, and the amount of force required for each keystroke.
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