Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for avid typists. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, part of Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series, presents an excellent solution for those seeking a tactile switch without breaking the bank. With a subtle and delightful tactile sensation, these switches feature a gentle bump that enhances your typing flow. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser ensures that the RGB lighting shines bright, creating an immersive visual experience. The medium-high pitch of the G Pro Brown provides a satisfying auditory feedback, further adding joy to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a completely different tactile experience. With a sharp and pronounced tactile bump, these switches cater to those who prefer a more intense typing feel. Coupled with a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Blueberry switches create a deeper, yet not overly "thocky," sound. Categorized as snappy, buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, invigorating, and stiff, the Blueberry switches provide a unique typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry have different housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Blueberry switches have a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both housings contribute to a unique and pleasing sound experience, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's polycarbonate top housing offers a more distinctive and bright sound compared to the Blueberry's POM top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which adds depth and fullness to the sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Blueberry switches also have a POM bottom housing, contributing to a deep and muted sound profile. Both bottom housings create a unique and pleasing sound experience, but the G Pro 3.0 Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a slightly richer and fuller sound compared to the Blueberry's POM bottom housing.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials can vary depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing being discussed. When pressing down on a key, the qualities of the bottom housing are more evident, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound that is produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Blueberry switches have different housing materials, they still offer similar results in terms of the overall typing experience, with slight variations in sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is evident that they are similar in terms of actuation force, both requiring 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This means that users can expect a similar level of sensitivity and responsiveness when typing on either of these switches. However, the bottom out force of the two switches differs significantly. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is relatively medium in terms of resistance, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial, pronounced typing feel. It is worth noting that the weight of these switches is an important consideration as it affects the typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be a suitable choice, allowing for comfortable typing over extended periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals seeking a heavier push feel and a more substantial typing experience should consider the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch with its higher bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar tactile feedback as the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience, ensuring that you can type with ease and precision. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the NovelKeys Blueberry, you can expect a satisfying travel distance that enhances your typing 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 NovelKeys Blueberry 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 Blueberry 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
In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is known for having a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback without being overpowering. The sound profile is clean and sharp, adding an extra layer of joy to typing sessions. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches have a lower-than-average sound frequency that is a little deeper than average but not "thocky." They offer a resonate sound profile, creating a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience.
As for feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switches are easy to press, offering gentle resistance during key presses. This results in a low-impact and responsive typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The switches are described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. They also have a stepped feel, with a noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches are snappy and offer a super responsive typing experience. They have a buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. However, it is unknown if they have a textured or invigorating feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches offer a delightful and subtle tactile sensation with a medium-high pitch sound profile. They provide an easy-to-press feel with a mild and stepped experience. The NovelKeys Blueberry switches, on the other hand, have a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency. They offer a snappy and buttery feel. While the sound and feel of these switches differ, both options offer enjoyable and high-quality typing experiences. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can be a suitable choice for newcomers looking for a tactile switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly switch without compromising on quality, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown would be an excellent choice. These switches offer a delightful and subtle tactile sensation with a medium-bottom out force of 63 grams. They provide an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. With a frosted light diffuser, they also enhance the visual experience with brighter RGB lighting.
On the other hand, if you prefer a sharper and more pronounced tactile bump, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry would be a great option. These switches have a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, which can provide a snappy and invigorating typing sensation. They offer a lower-pitched and resonant sound profile, adding an immersive auditory experience to your typing sessions.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry depends on your personal preference for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a more gentle and effortless typing experience with a medium-bottom out force, go for the G Pro 3.0 Brown. However, if you enjoy a sharper tactile bump and a snappier typing feel with a heavier bottom out force, the NovelKeys Blueberry would be more suitable. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that best complements your typing style.
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