Kailh Box White vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you are likely weighing your options between various types. Two such switches that stand out are the Kailh Box White, a clicky switch, and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them appealing to different individuals and use cases. The Kailh Box White switch is renowned for its maximum audio feedback, offering a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is designed for gamers, providing lightning-fast responsiveness with its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. Additionally, its vibrant RGB lighting and medium-high pitch enhance the gaming experience. These general pointers give you a glimpse into the strengths of each switch. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box White and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches feature the same polycarbonate top housing material. This material produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer and more resonant nature. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar sound and aesthetic experience when it comes to their top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Box White utilizes a nylon bottom housing while the G Pro 3.0 Silver also features a nylon base. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. Therefore, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is likely to produce a slightly different sound compared to the Box White due to their difference in bottom housing materials.
In terms of the overall impact on the sound and feel of the switches, the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. This means that the nylon bottom housing of both switches will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound experience when typing. On the other hand, the top housing's impact is more noticeable when releasing a key, influencing the sound at the moment of letting go. Since both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, they will provide similar results when it comes to the sound produced upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Box White is slightly heavier, at 50 grams, compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver with its lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Silver requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Box White at 60 grams and the G Pro 3.0 Silver at 50 grams. This means that when fully pressing down on the keys, both switches provide a similar resistance.
Considering weight is important because it can affect typing endurance and overall typing experience. Some individuals prefer lighter switches, like the G Pro 3.0 Silver, as it allows them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This would be ideal for keyboards used at work or during extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, others prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy the feeling of a stronger push. For these individuals, the Box White, with its slightly heavier actuation force, would be a better choice.
In summary, while the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch differ slightly, both switches offer a satisfactory typing experience. The Box White offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial push, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter touch for increased typing endurance. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Box White has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver is considered the more traditional length, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Box White is shallower, making it a popular choice for gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - those seeking a more responsive typing experience might opt for the shorter travel distance of the Box White, while those who prefer a deeper keystroke may prefer the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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 clicky switch is best known for its "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch. The sound is resonant, high-pitched, and has a clean and sharp profile, which provides a satisfying and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offers a more bassy sound profile. With a medium-high pitch, these switches add an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. While the Box White offers a crunchier sound reminiscent of autumn leaves, the G Pro Silver switches provide a deeper and richer sound resembling bass tones. The ultimate sound experience will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch offers a polished experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The materials used and potential factory lubrication result in a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch provides a buttery and creamy keystroke experience. These switches offer a seamless and effortless typing sensation, where your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. The smooth and refined finish of the Box White switch contrasts with the smooth and uniform typing sensation of the G Pro Silver switches.
Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offer different subjective qualities in sound and feel. The Box White switch provides a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile, accompanied by a polished and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro Silver switch offers a bassy sound profile with medium-high pitch, complemented by a buttery and creamy keystroke experience. Both switches have their unique advantages and appeal to different preferences. For those seeking maximum audio feedback and a crisp tactile feel, the Box White switch would be a suitable choice. If lightning-fast responsiveness, value, and an exhilarating auditory element are desired for gaming, the G Pro Silver switch is an excellent option. Ultimately, the decision will depend on individual preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for maximum audio feedback and an accented tactility, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the one for you. Typing on these switches will provide you with a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch sound and a clean and sharp higher-pitched sound profile. Additionally, the Box White switch offers a polished feel, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize gaming and want a lightning-fast and responsive experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the better choice. With a lighter bottom out force and a shorter travel distance, these switches provide exceptional gaming performance and a competitive advantage. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switch also offers vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch sound profile, adding an exhilarating element to your gaming sessions.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your priorities. If you value maximum audio feedback and a polished typing experience, choose the Kailh Box White clicky switch. However, if you prioritize gaming performance and responsiveness, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the one to go for. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing or gaming experience.
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