Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly influence your typing experience, and two popular options are the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red. The Box White V2 is a clicky switch that stands out for its crisp tactile feedback and satisfying audible click, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a pronounced response while typing. This characteristic is especially appealing for typists who appreciate the sensory confirmation of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch that offers a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience, designed with a medium-light actuation force that balances responsiveness and comfort. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects, making it a great option for gamers and aesthetic enthusiasts alike. While the Box White V2 caters to those who thrive on feedback and auditory cues, the G Pro Red is perfect for users seeking a sleek, quiet experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
When it comes to the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches, both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a comparable auditory experience that is sharp and clear. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffer structure, contributing to a higher-pitched sound profile, which enhances clarity and resonance in typing. This shared characteristic means that users can expect a similar acoustic profile when using either switch, particularly in environments where RGB lighting is integrated, as the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for vibrant light diffusion. The aesthetic appeal of both switches is heightened due to this feature, as they enable a luminous display that complements RGB setups.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches diverge with the use of nylon in each case. Nylon is recognized for its flexibility and capacity to absorb sound, leading to a deeper, fuller acoustic profile. This implies that while the top housings contribute to the brighter tones, the bottom housings temper these sounds with a softer edge, generating a more rounded auditory experience. Since both the Box White V2 and G Pro 3.0 Red use nylon for their bottom housings, the overall sound character remains consistent across both switches, emphasizing a rich and profound bottoming-out sound that many users appreciate for its tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the interaction between the differing top and bottom housings in each switch culminates in a unique typing feel and sound profile. While both switches share polycarbonate tops leading to crisper high-end frequencies, the nylon bottoms ensure that the sound remains balanced and full-bodied. This duality allows users to enjoy a harmonious typing experience that combines the advantages of both materials. In summary, despite some differences in switch characteristics, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red creates an appealing and consistent acoustic experience for any keyboard enthusiast.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, both exhibit the same actuation and bottom out forces, with each having an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This similarity in force specifications means users can expect a virtually identical typing experience in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke and bottom out the switch. Both switches are considered light, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons, appealing to those who favor a softer touch for comfort. Therefore, for those seeking a substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, neither switch would be optimal, as both provide comparable, lighter forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you opt for the Kailh Box White V2, you will experience a quicker and more responsive keystroke, which is often preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a more traditional and deeper feel, which may be more comfortable for typists who appreciate a fuller keystroke. Thus, for those who favor a shorter and snappier action, the Kailh Box White V2 is the better choice, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is ideal for users who prefer a more substantial depth in their keystrokes.
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 Red 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 Red 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
The Kailh Box White V2 switches are known for their distinct audible click, producing a crisp and pronounced sound that adds a character to each keystroke. This clicky sound can be particularly satisfying for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switches feature a more neutral sound profile, which is moderate and unobtrusive, making these switches suitable for both home and work environments. While the G Pro Red does not provide the same pronounced auditory feedback as the Box White V2, its sound is still satisfactory for most preferences, allowing for a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Box White V2 offers a tactile feedback that is sharp and engaging, encouraging users to type with purpose. This tactile bump is more pronounced, making it ideal for users who appreciate a feedback-rich experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch delivers a creamy and polished typing sensation, characterized by smooth key travel and a buttery feel. This switch is designed for those who prefer a gentle and fluid typing experience, with minimal resistance. The G Pro Red's mild and silky qualities create a refined and effortless action that distinguishes it from the more tactile nature of the Box White V2.
In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Box White V2 is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile switch with pronounced auditory feedback, while the G Pro Red provides a smooth, quiet, and creamy typing sensation. If you’re looking for a keyboard experience that enhances your typing with a tactile and auditory response, the Box White V2 will be your go-to. However, if you prioritize a seamless and fluid typing experience with less noise, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be a better fit. By understanding the qualities of each, you can choose a switch that best aligns with your typing preferences and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch largely depends on your specific preferences and use cases. If you enjoy an audible typing experience with crisp tactile feedback, the Box White V2 is your best bet. It's ideal for those who love the classic clicky sound and feel, which can be especially satisfying during fast-paced typing or gaming. This switch’s light actuation force makes it accessible for extended typing sessions without much fatigue. However, if you prefer a silent and smooth typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be the more suitable choice. Its creamy, polished feel allows for a seamless keypress, ideal for both work and gaming environments where noise could be a concern. This switch not only provides a gentle touch but also enhances your RGB lighting experience with its frosted light diffuser. Ultimately, consider your personal preference for sound and feel, as well as the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard, to make the right choice for your mechanical keyboard.
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