Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry offer distinct options to suit different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 White, a linear switch, caters to delicate typists with its minimal actuation force of 38g, ensuring effortless and sensitive keystrokes. With a frosted light diffuser, this switch allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting, while its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry, a tactile switch, offers a sharp tactile bump, ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced typing feel. It has a lower-than-average sound frequency, feeling deeper but not "thocky." While these general pointers give an overview, diving deeper into specific preferences and requirements will help you make the best decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry differ in their housing materials, which greatly influence the sound profile they produce. The G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Blueberry utilizes a POM top housing. The polycarbonate gives the G Pro 3.0 White a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more resonant and clear sound. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Blueberry creates a deeper sound with muted tones, providing a unique and pleasing typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 White uses a nylon material, while the Blueberry incorporates a POM bottom housing. Typing on the G Pro 3.0 White, with its nylon bottom housing, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Blueberry contributes to its deep and muted sound, which sets it apart from other switches.
Despite their differences, both switches share similar qualities in their top and bottom housing materials. Both the polycarbonate and POM top housings are known for creating pleasing and unique sound profiles, albeit in different ways. The same can be said for the nylon and POM bottom housings, although the specific sound characteristics may vary. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that will appeal to different typing preferences. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of the G Pro 3.0 White or the deeper and more muted tones of the Blueberry, you can expect a satisfying typing experience from either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is clear that they differ significantly in terms of weight. The G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a much heavier bottom out force of 80 grams.
The lighter weight of the G Pro 3.0 White can be advantageous for individuals who prefer a lighter touch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue. This feature makes it suitable for those who use their keyboards extensively for work purposes or during long gaming sessions. On the contrary, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the NovelKeys Blueberry provide a more substantial typing experience. This increased resistance can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more tactile typing sensation.
It is important to consider personal preference when selecting a switch, as different users may have varying preferences for the amount of force required to trigger a keystroke. While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White offers a lighter touch, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry provides a heavier and more pronounced keystroke experience. Overall, these differences in actuation and bottom out forces provide options for users seeking different typing sensations.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key for either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 White or the NovelKeys Blueberry, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance of the keys.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White for $3.27.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is described as clacky, which means it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The sound is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch is known for having a low-pitched sound frequency. It is deeper than average but not "thocky," offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences. If you're looking for a sharp and snappy sound, the G Pro 3.0 White switch would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a lower-pitched and more mellow sound, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch would be a good option.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a few descriptors. It is described as creamy, which means it provides a smooth and buttery typing experience. The keys effortlessly melt into each keystroke, allowing for a silky sensation. Additionally, it is considered easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience by making it effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue. It is also feathery, meaning the switch is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers. This reduces strain and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The NovelKeys Blueberry switch, on the other hand, is described as snappy and invigorating. It offers super responsiveness with pronounced feedback, creating an immersive typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 White produces a clacky sound and provides a creamy, easy-to-press, and feathery typing feel. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a low-pitched sound and a snappy and invigorating typing feel. Based on the available information, it is clear that these switches provide distinct experiences and cater to different preferences. For those who prefer a sharp and snappy sound with a smooth and buttery typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 White switch would be a great choice. For those who enjoy a lower-pitched sound and a snappy and invigorating typing feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are a delicate typist looking for a budget-friendly option that offers effortless and sensitive keystrokes, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its light actuation force of 45 grams, it provides a creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, and silky typing experience. The sound profile of this switch is described as clacky, neutral, and subdued, making it suitable for both home and work environments.
On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile feel while typing, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is the one for you. With a heavier bottom-out force of 80 grams, this switch offers a snappy, buttery, textured, and invigorating typing experience. The sound profile is low-pitched and resonant, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize lightness and smoothness, go for the G Pro 3.0 White. If you prefer a more tactile and crisp typing feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry is the one to choose. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and ultimate typing experience when making your decision.
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