Kailh Box White vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White 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, there are a variety of options available to suit different preferences. Two popular choices are the Kailh Box White, a clicky switch, and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch. The Box White is best known for its maximum audio feedback, providing a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and an accented tactility while typing. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a more subtle tactile sensation with a gentle bump that doesn't overpower your typing flow. Additionally, it features a frosted light diffuser, enhancing the visual experience of your RGB lighting. While these general descriptions provide an overview of each switch's characteristics, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches utilize similar housing materials, with both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a comparable sound experience and aesthetic appeal from both switches when it comes to their top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Kailh Box White and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches differ in their choice of material. The Box White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon has long been a preferred material for switch housings due to its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. It has a softness that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a slightly different typing experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches.
In summary, both the Kailh Box White and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches share a polycarbonate top housing, delivering a similar sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting. However, while the Kailh Box White utilizes a nylon bottom housing to create a deeper and fuller sound experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown also incorporates a nylon bottom housing for a comparable effect. Ultimately, both switches offer their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing users with options to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the Box White has a slightly lighter force requirement of 50 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 55 grams. Both fall within the medium range, making them suitable for those who prefer a balanced typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box White requires 60 grams of force, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 63 grams. Again, both switches fall within the medium range, providing a satisfying tactile feedback when pressed all the way down.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the better option, as it requires a slightly lower amount of force for actuation and bottoming out. This can be beneficial for those who need to type for extended periods, such as in a work or gaming setting. On the other hand, if someone desires a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch, with its slightly heavier force requirements, would be the preferred choice.
Overall, both switches offer a medium actuation and bottom out force, providing a balanced typing experience. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier weight, both switches can deliver similar results and meet the needs of different users based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box White has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feeling, while the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Box White is shallower and preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker key inputs, which can be advantageous in gaming scenarios. However, some users may feel that the shorter travel distance feels too abrupt or lacking in depth. Therefore, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box White is known for its resonant and high-pitched characteristics. Typing on these switches produces a clean and sharp sound profile, similar to the experience of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is not mentioned in the provided information. However, it is worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. If you enjoy a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience, the Box White switches would be a suitable choice.
In terms of feel, the Box White switches offer a polished and smooth typing experience. The switch has a refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished feel enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switches are described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses. They require minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. These switches provide a low-impact and responsive typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Browns are categorized as mild switches, offering a gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. They fall in a safe middle-ground zone, appealing to most users. It is important to consider your preference for a smooth and refined typing experience versus a gentle and low-impact feel when choosing between these switches.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switches and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Box White switches provide a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, producing a satisfying auditory feedback similar to stepping on autumn leaves. They also offer a polished and smooth feel for sleek and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switches do not have specific information regarding their sound profile but are known for an easy-to-press and low-impact typing feel, offering a gentle resistance and responsiveness. Selecting between these switches depends on your preference for sound and feel. If you seek maximum audio feedback and a polished typing experience, the Box White switches would be a favorable choice. However, if you prefer a gentle and low-impact typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switches would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you prioritize maximum audio feedback and enjoy a clicky sound profile, the Box White switch is a great choice. With its "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and pronounced tactility, typing on these switches provides a satisfying auditory and tactile experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile sensation and a switch that won't overpower your typing flow, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the way to go. These switches offer a gentle bump that enhances the typing experience without being too prominent. Additionally, the G Pro Brown features a frosted light diffuser, ensuring your RGB lighting shines brighter, creating a visually immersive experience.
When it comes to sound, the Box White switch offers a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp auditory feedback. The G Pro 3.0 Brown does not have specific sound descriptors provided, but it is safe to assume that it offers a medium-high pitch that adds an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Box White switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers an easy-to-press typing feel, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This low-impact and responsive experience ensures comfortable typing with minimal finger fatigue.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch depends on your preferences. If you prioritize maximum audio feedback and a clicky sound, the Box White is the way to go. However, if you prefer a more subtle tactile sensation and a gentle typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the better option. Consider your preferred sound and feel, and choose the switch that best suits your typing style.
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