Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, stand out for their unique qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Black from Gateron boasts a heavier 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, providing a substantial typing experience that appeals to those who prefer a more robust feel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offers a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile, resulting in a satisfying tactile experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Black emphasizes a medium-high pitch auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the NovelKeys Cream provides a low-pitched, textured sound that is invigorating. 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream both feature POM top housings, which give them a unique and pleasing sound profile. However, the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing is characterized by a higher-pitched and slightly clacky sound, whereas the NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This means that the sound experience when typing on these switches will vary, with the G Pro 3.0 Black providing a sharper sound compared to the Cream.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Black and the NovelKeys Cream feature POM housings that create a deeper and more muted sound profile. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches will be fairly similar, as both switches utilize the same material for their bottom housings. The POM material brings a unique sound profile to these switches, offering a satisfying typing experience that is characterized by a deeper tone compared to other housing materials like ABS or polycarbonate.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While both switches feature POM top housings, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a slightly sharper and clackier sound, while the Cream provides a deeper and more muted sound experience. However, with both switches utilizing POM bottom housings, users can expect a consistent bottom-out sound and feel between the two switches. Ultimately, the decision will come down to whether you prefer a higher-pitched clacky sound or a deeper and more muted typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, we find that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the NovelKeys Cream's 55 grams. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 70 grams, making them both medium-heavy switches overall. The slight difference in actuation force may not be noticeable to some users, but those who prefer a slightly lighter touch may lean towards the NovelKeys Cream, while users who prefer a bit of a heavier typing experience may favor the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and whether one prioritizes a lighter actuation force or a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch have similar travel distances, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience and feel of the switches will be comparable, providing a consistent level of feedback for users. Overall, both switches offer a moderate travel distance that is neither too shallow nor too deep, striking a balance between comfort and responsiveness in typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black 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 Black for $2.77.
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched, resonant sound that leans towards a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience based on personal preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black catering to those who prefer a sharper sound and the NovelKeys Cream appealing to users who enjoy a deeper, more resonant tone.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the G Pro 3.0 Black is described as providing a creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with subtle resistance. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch is known for its buttery, textured, and invigorating feel, providing a fluid keystroke experience with noticeable feedback and actuation force. Both switches aim to enhance the typing feel, with the G Pro 3.0 Black focusing on a silky smoothness and the NovelKeys Cream offering a blend of smoothness and feedback to cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that can cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a creamy, silky typing experience, the NovelKeys Cream stands out with its low-pitched, resonant sound and buttery, textured feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, both switches offer premium quality options for those seeking a linear switch for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you value a medium-heavy typing experience with a balanced feel and medium-high pitch sound, along with vibrant RGB lighting effects, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier typing experience with a deeper sound profile and low-pitched resonant sound, along with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, the NovelKeys Cream switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what features matter most to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what typing experience you desire and what characteristics you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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