Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch that offers a budget-friendly excellence. Typing on these switches provides a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy type feel. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is a tactile switch that delivers a sharp tactile bump, perfect for those who enjoy a distinct typing feel. When typing on the Blueberry switches, users experience a lower-than-average sound frequency that is deeper than average but not "thocky". While these are the general characteristics of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your personal preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry have contrasting housing materials that significantly impact their sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Blueberry uses a POM top housing, producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. This unique sound quality adds to the typing experience, making it distinctive and pleasing.

While the top housings of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Blueberry differ, their bottom housings share similarities. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Blueberry's POM bottom housing also creates a deep sound profile that is relatively more muted. Both bottom housings enhance the overall sound experience of the switches, adding a satisfying thickness to the typing sound.

It is important to note that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housing materials are divided between the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Blueberry. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressurized, while the top housing affects the sound generated when releasing a key. These distinctions lead to unique typing experiences for each switch, allowing users to choose the option that aligns more closely with their preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, there are notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, requiring a relatively gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. As for the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow measures at 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, giving users a more substantial and pronounced typing feel. Both switches have their own advantages based on individual preferences. Those who prefer a lighter and more effortless keystroke may favor the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. Conversely, individuals seeking a more robust and forceful typing experience may gravitate towards the NovelKeys Blueberry with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches will offer a similar experience in terms of the distance you feel when you press down on a key, providing a consistent keyboard typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch has a high-pitched and resonant sound profile. When pressed, they produce a sharp and crisp sound, which is preferred by those who do not like richer and bassier sound profiles. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch has a low-pitched and resonant sound. It offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches provide a clean and sharp sound profile, but the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a higher pitch while the Blueberry has a deeper but not "thocky" sound. It's important to mention that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.

In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch offers a polished and creamy typing experience. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished feel can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each keystroke melting into a silky sensation. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is described as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff. The switch provides a super responsive and alive typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke. Some users may appreciate the subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. The Blueberry switch also offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. However, it requires a higher amount of force to actuate and/or bottom-out compared to other switches.

Considering all the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Yellow switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile, while the Blueberry switch offers a lower-than-average sound frequency. When it comes to feel, the Yellow switch offers a polished and creamy typing experience, while the Blueberry switch is snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can choose the switch that best suits their needs. However, it's important to consider that individual experiences may vary based on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches deliver excellent performance in their respective categories, offering satisfying and immersive typing experiences.

Conclusion

In closing, it is clear that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a great choice. Its higher pitched clacky sound profile and fairly bouncy type feel make it suitable for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a heavier bottom out force and a sharp tactile bump, the NovelKeys Blueberry is the way to go. It offers a lower-than-average sound frequency and a typing feel that is sharp and pronounced. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile and a polished, creamy typing experience or a low-pitched, resonant sound profile and a snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, or stiff typing experience, both switches have their own unique characteristics to offer.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow Linear

$3.10

$2.78 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more