Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry

Overview

Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, a budget-friendly linear switch from Gateron's G Pro line-up, and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, a tactile switch. If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, these two options offer distinct advantages worth considering. The G Pro Red is renowned for its smooth typing experience, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use with its medium-light actuation force. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch offers a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, NovelKeys Blueberry switches boast a sharp tactile bump, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feel. They also provide a lower-than-average sound frequency, deeper than average without being "thocky." However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This material is especially useful for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Blueberry switch utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted. While both switches offer pleasing sounds, the G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate housing gives it a more pronounced and vibrant sound compared to the Blueberry's POM housing.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the G Pro 3.0 Red incorporates a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In comparison, the Blueberry switch also uses a POM bottom housing, creating a similar pleasing and deep sound. The sound profile is relatively more muted, making it more suitable for those seeking a quieter typing experience. Despite having different housing materials, both switches offer a similar deep and muted sound, providing a satisfying tactile experience.

When examining the impact of the different housing materials on the switches, it is important to note that the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed. In the case of the G Pro 3.0 Red, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a more impactful bottom-out sound and creates a rounded feel. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound produced when you let go of a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red produces a distinct sound as the key is released. Similarly, the POM top housing of the Blueberry switch will also affect the sound upon key release. Thus, despite differences in housing materials, both switches deliver unique sound characteristics depending on the specific part of the switch being engaged.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, we can see clear differences in weight. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. Additionally, its bottom out force of 50 grams ensures that you won't have to apply excessive pressure while typing or gaming.

On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a heavier feel. With an actuation force of 55 grams, it requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. The Blueberry switch's bottom out force is even heavier, measuring at 80 grams. This implies that the user will experience a more substantial typing experience due to the additional pressure required to bottom out the keys.

For those looking for a lighter typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch would be a suitable choice, allowing for comfortable and extended typing sessions. Alternatively, if you prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more satisfying tactile response, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, would be the preferable option.

In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a smoother and more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch is heavier, offering a more pronounced tactile response and a satisfying push feel.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, you will experience the same distance of travel with either switch. Whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red or the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, you can expect a consistent and comfortable typing experience as both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. It strikes a balance between being beginner-friendly and advanced, and can be used at home or in a work environment. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have a low-pitched sound profile. They offer a bass-heavy and mellow tone, resulting in a deeper sound frequency compared to average switches. Additionally, the Blueberry switches have a resonant sound profile, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. The sound profile of a switch can also be influenced by other elements such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky. These descriptors highlight the smooth and refined typing experience offered by these switches. They have a buttery feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on them feels effortless and gliding, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. The G Pro 3.0 Red switches also fall in a safe middle-ground zone, making them approachable in terms of both sound and feel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches are described as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff. These switches are very responsive, providing a uniform and seamless typing sensation. They offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. While some users may appreciate the textured or scratchy feel of these switches, others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience.

In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches have a neutral sound profile and offer a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. They strike a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making them suitable for various purposes. The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches, on the other hand, have a low-pitched sound profile with a deeper sound frequency and a resonant sound experience. They provide a snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff typing feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Red switches offer a smooth and balanced typing experience, the Blueberry switches provide a more pronounced and lively feel. If you are seeking a similar typing experience, it is recommended to opt for the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red as they provide comparable results.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that provides a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch would be a great choice. It offers a creamy and silky feel, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile feel and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is the way to go. The Blueberry switch provides a snappy and invigorating experience with its pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. Its low-pitched resonant sound profile adds to the immersive auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for key feel, sound, and typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more