Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that cater to different preferences are the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver. The Box White V2 is a clicky switch renowned for its crisp tactile feedback and satisfying audible click, making it an excellent choice for typists and users who enjoy a pronounced response while typing. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is designed with gamers in mind, offering a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm for speedy actuation and a smoother, quieter experience that allows for rapid key presses without distracting clicks. The G Pro 3.0 Silver also features a frosted light diffuser, enhancing RGB lighting effects during gaming sessions. While the Kailh Box White V2 is perfect for those who appreciate a tactile and auditory experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is ideal for competitive gamers seeking quick and fluid movements. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver share a notable similarity in their top housing material, as both utilize polycarbonate. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which can enhance the overall typing experience for users who appreciate clarity in the acoustic feedback of their switches. The rigidity of polycarbonate not only allows for a more resonant sound but also means that both switch brands excel in displaying RGB lighting, given the material’s translucency. Whether using the Box White V2 or the G Pro 3.0 Silver, users can expect a visually appealing and vibrant experience with backlit setups, highlighting the shared qualities of polycarbonate across these two popular switch models.
In contrast, the bottom housing components of both switches are made from nylon, a material traditionally valued for its acoustic properties. When typing on both switches, users will notice a deeper and fuller sound profile emanating from the nylon bottom housing. The inherent softness of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, producing a softer, rounder sound that contrasts with the sharper notes from the polycarbonate tops. This combination creates a unique auditory experience, as the deeper tones of the nylon complement the brightness of the polycarbonate, resulting in a balanced and enjoyable typing experience for users of both switches.
Ultimately, when comparing the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, we see that the different material properties of the top and bottom housings influence the overall sound profile and tactile feel of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing accentuates the brighter sounds during actuation and release, while the nylon bottom housing softens the auditory feedback during bottom-out. Therefore, though both switches share similar materials in both housing types, their unique sonic characteristics enable users to enjoy a diverse yet complementary experience, depending on their preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, both switches demonstrate identical specifications in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Each switch boasts a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable typing experience, making either switch an excellent choice for those who prefer lighter key presses, facilitating longer typing sessions without fatigue. With both switches offering the same actuation and bottom out forces, users will achieve similar results regardless of their choice, catering well to individuals who favor a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Box White V2 offers a slightly deeper feel when pressed, which could appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced feedback during key presses. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver, with its shorter travel distance, might be preferable for gamers seeking faster response times and a more immediate actuation. The difference in travel distances reflects a trend where shorter distances are favored for quick actions, but those who prefer a richer typing experience might gravitate towards the Kailh Box White V2. Thus, in summary, if you seek speed and responsiveness, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is your best bet, while the Box White V2 caters to those who enjoy a more traditional and tactile feel.
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 Silver 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 Silver for $3.27.
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 offer a distinctive clicky sound that is characterized by a crisp and sharp auditory feedback during key presses. This notable click is designed to provide clarity with each stroke, making it satisfying for typists who appreciate auditory confirmation of their inputs. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches deliver a more bassy and low-pitched sound profile. This switch produces a thocky sound resembling a deeper thud, which can enhance the overall auditory experience while gaming. While both switches provide unique sound characteristics, the G Pro 3.0 Silver’s rich undertones may appeal more to gamers desiring a less piercing and more immersive sound environment, whereas the Box White V2 is particularly suited for those who enjoy pronounced auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 provides a well-defined tactile feedback that enriches the typing experience, although specific descriptors of its feel were not provided. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are lauded for their buttery and creamy keystroke experience. This smoothness facilitates seamless transitions between key presses, allowing for a fluid typing sensation. Users will notice that the keys feel effortless to press, akin to gliding fingers across a polished surface. The difference in tactile feedback between the two will appeal to different user preferences; typists may favor the pronounced tactile response of the Box White V2, while gamers may appreciate the fluidity of the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
Overall, both the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Box White V2 excels in providing a sharp auditory experience with tactile feedback, ideal for those who enjoy clicky switches, especially in typing. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer a softer sound and a smooth feel that enhances gaming experiences. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on whether you value pronounced feedback for typing or a fluid, immersive experience for gaming.
Conclusion
In closing, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch should ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you appreciate tactile feedback and an audible click, the Box White V2 is ideal, particularly for typing, where that satisfying sound can enhance your experience and provide a sense of engagement with each keystroke. The lighter feel and pronounced click may also be appealing if you enjoy a more traditional typing experience reminiscent of vintage typewriters. On the other hand, if you're a gamer seeking a competitive edge, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the way to go. Its shorter travel distance and buttery-smooth keystrokes are built for rapid actions and quick responses, ensuring you can execute commands swiftly. Plus, its bassy and thocky sound profile adds a rich auditory layer to your gaming sessions, making every press feel impactful. Ultimately, consider whether you prioritize the satisfying feedback of a clicky switch for typing or the sleek responsiveness of a linear switch for gaming, and choose accordingly to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
