Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown can significantly impact your typing and gaming experience. The Kailh Box White V2 is a clicky switch renowned for its crisp tactile feedback and satisfying audible click, ideal for those who appreciate a pronounced response with each keystroke. Its distinctive sound profile makes it a favorite among typists who enjoy auditory affirmation with every letter they strike. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a subtler tactile experience, providing a mild bump that enhances typing comfort without overshadowing flow. Its frosted light diffuser further enhances RGB lighting, bringing a vibrant glow to your setup while maintaining an economical approach to quality. While the Box White V2 appeals to users seeking a lively, clicky sensation, the G Pro 3.0 Brown caters to those who appreciate a smooth, tactile feedback that promotes a quieter working environment. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which deliver similar sound characteristics due to the material's inherent properties. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, making both switches sound crisper upon actuation. This similarity in top housing materials also means that both switches can effectively accommodate RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency allows light to pass through, thereby enhancing visual effects on a keyboard. Consequently, users can expect a comparable acoustic experience during typing, with the clarity and resonant sound offering a satisfying auditory feedback across both switches.
However, the bottom housings of the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown diverge in their contribution to the overall sound profile. Both switches employ nylon as their bottom housing material, which is recognized for its sound-absorbing qualities. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, contrasting with the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate tops. The nylon housing helps to soften the overall auditory feedback, creating a more rounded sound as a user bottoms out the key switch. This combination—stiff polycarbonate on top and softer nylon below—allows each switch to offer a unique tonal balance, blending clarity with depth.
The differences in top and bottom housing materials also affect the tactile experience of each switch. While the top polycarbonate significantly influences the sound realized when releasing a key, the nylon bottom plays a pivotal role in the bottom-out sound and feel. This division of acoustic qualities means that users can experience a dynamic interaction between both materials, where the crispness of the polycarbonate is complemented by the mellowness of the nylon. The result is a cohesive typing experience that balances sharpness and depth, making both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown favorable options depending on individual preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Kailh Box White V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to its reduced resistance. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile feel that may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, users looking for a lighter switch experience would be better served by the Box White V2, while those seeking a firmer typing experience would benefit from the G Pro 3.0 Brown.
Travel distance
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, the travel distances highlight distinct preferences for typing feel and responsiveness. The Kailh Box White V2 features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it suitable for gamers and those who appreciate a more immediate response. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's travel distance is 4 mm, which is more traditional and offers a deeper, more tactile experience that some users may find more satisfying for extended typing sessions. Thus, if you prefer a quicker actuation and a lighter touch, the Box White V2 is the way to go, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress. Overall, the Kailh Box White V2 has a shorter travel distance, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown 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 Brown for $2.77.
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 White V2 switches are characterized by their sharp, crisp click that provides an unmistakable auditory confirmation with each keystroke. This distinct click is not only rewarding but also enhances the overall typing experience for those who appreciate audio feedback. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches produce a more subdued sound profile. They offer a medium-high pitch auditory response that, while satisfying, does not come with the pronounced click of the Box White V2, making it less intrusive in quieter environments. Ultimately, these auditory characteristics will vary based on the keyboard configuration and keycap material used, but the distinct clickiness of the Box White V2 will stand out more than the G Pro 3.0 Brown's subtle feedback.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switches deliver a pronounced tactile bump that is finely tuned to accentuate the clicky nature, providing a tangible feedback that can be felt during the press and release. This tactile quality can energize the typing experience, making it discernibly engaging for users who thrive on interaction with their keys. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches are designed to be easier to press, characterized by a gentle resistance that demands minimal force to activate. This switch offers a mild yet noticeable tactility, with a stepped feel that provides a clear distinction in the actuation, which can enhance the typing experience without overwhelming the user. The result is a typing experience that is gentle on the fingers and accessible to a wide audience, making it suitable for long typing sessions without causing fatigue.
In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches present distinctly different auditory and tactile qualities. The Box White V2 is perfect for users who seek an assertive click and a pronounced tactile feel, making it ideal for those who thrive on feedback. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a subtler auditory experience and a comfortable typing feel that eases the typing flow, making it a superb choice for those who prefer a gentle touch with tactile feedback. Both switch types cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard landscape, allowing users to choose based on their desired sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual tastes.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a pronounced auditory and tactile experience, where you can hear and feel each keystroke, the Kailh Box White V2 is an excellent choice. Its lighter actuation force makes it especially suitable for individuals who prefer fast typing or gaming, and the satisfying click sound can enhance your overall engagement during use while providing clear feedback. On the other hand, if you seek a more subdued typing experience that balances tactile feedback with a softer sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the way to go. Its medium push force and mild tactile bump allow for a comfortable and efficient typing flow, making it great for longer writing sessions without causing finger fatigue. With vibrant RGB lighting capabilities, it also adds an aesthetic flair to your setup. Ultimately, your choice should align with the auditory and tactile qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard, ensuring that your typing experience is both enjoyable and efficient.
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