Kailh Box White vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, offer distinct typing experiences. The Box White switch is perfect for those who crave maximum audio feedback. With its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile, typing on these switches feels like stepping on autumn leaves. Additionally, the Box White switch provides an accented tactility, adding to the satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch excels in affordability without compromising quality. This linear switch offers a higher pitched clacky sound and a bouncy feel while typing. Its polished and creamy characteristics make it a sought-after option in the budget-friendly category. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your personalized preferences and requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow both share the same material for their top housing - polycarbonate. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that are intended to be used with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch design.
On the other hand, the difference lies in their bottom housing materials. The Box White utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, creating a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic makes them popular choices for those seeking a more muted typing experience.
It is important to note that the different housing materials in each switch contribute to their overall performance. While the top housing primarily affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. This means that despite the similarities in top housing material between the Box White and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, the differences in their bottom housing materials may create variation in the overall typing experience and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, we find some similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This similarity suggests that users will get similar results in terms of responsiveness and ease of typing when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a distinction between the two switches. The Kailh Box White has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This means that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires a slightly heavier force to fully press the keys compared to the Kailh Box White.
Considering the weight of the switches is an important factor for users. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may appreciate the Kailh Box White switch, as it allows for extended periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch, as the heavier bottom out force can provide a satisfying tactile feedback.
In summary, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch share the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the Kailh Box White has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a relatively heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.6 mm of the Box White. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is considered to be the most traditional, offering a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Box White's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm is more suitable for those seeking a faster response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. It is important to note that while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers more depth, some users may find its longer travel distance to be too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance of the Box White offering quicker response times, and the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow providing a more satisfying keystroke depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 per 10 switches.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, both switches are described as having a high-pitched sound profile. However, the Box White is also noted for its resonant nature, providing a clean and sharp sound akin to an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is said to have a higher pitched clacky sound profile. It is important to note that the sound produced by the switches can also vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, both the Box White and G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are described as having a polished finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is also labeled as creamy, which contributes to a smooth and buttery typing sensation. This can be attributed to either factory lubing or specific materials used in the switch. Overall, users can expect a refined and effortless typing experience with both switches.
Taking into account all the available information, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch possess similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a high-pitched sound profile, with the Box White being resonant and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow having a clacky sound. In terms of feel, both switches feature a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is described as creamy, offering a silky typing sensation, the Box White switch still provides a refined and sleek experience. Ultimately, users can expect comparable results from either switch, allowing them to make a decision based on their personal preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for maximum audio feedback and a satisfying tactile experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the way to go. Its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, along with its "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and accented tactility, provide a unique and immersive typing experience. The Box White switch also offers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy clean and sharp audio feedback.
On the other hand, if you prefer a budget-friendly linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is an excellent choice. With its higher pitched clacky sound profile and bouncy type feel, this switch offers a different auditory and tactile sensation. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, making it a comfortable option for extended typing sessions.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you value maximum audio feedback and a tactile typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a budget-friendly linear switch with a smooth and polished feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a great option. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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