Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream

Overview

Introducing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch, and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, a linear switch, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features and performance. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is a budget-friendly option from Gateron, known for its exceptional quality. With its subtle tactile sensation and gentle bump, it provides an effortless typing experience without disrupting your flow. Additionally, it features a frosted light diffuser that enhances the brightness and immersion of your RGB lighting. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream offers a heftier linear typing experience, characterized by a deep sound profile that adds an extra dimension to your typing sessions. Its buttery smoothness and low-pitched sound create a satisfying and invigorating sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream have different materials for their top housing. The G Pro 3.0 Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is translucent, allowing for a visually pleasing effect when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound compared to the Cream's POM top housing.

In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown incorporates a nylon material, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper sound but with a relatively more muted profile. Both switches offer a pleasing sound experience, but the G Pro 3.0 Brown's nylon bottom housing may provide a slightly fuller sound due to its ability to absorb more sound compared to the Cream's POM bottom housing.

It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall sound and feel of a switch. While the bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's polycarbonate top housing will result in a sharper sound when releasing a key, while the Cream's POM top housing will produce a deeper and more muted sound. Despite the differences in materials, both switches offer their own unique sound profiles that can elevate the typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is clear that they have some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, both switches require 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, indicating a medium level of sensitivity. This means that users can expect a similar level of responsiveness when typing or gaming with either switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a notable distinction. The G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 63 grams of force to fully bottom out, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream has a slightly higher bottom out force of 70 grams, classified as medium-heavy. This implies that the Cream switch provides a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown. For individuals who prefer a lighter feel to type for extended periods, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be a suitable choice. However, those who enjoy a stronger push and desire a more substantial tactile sensation might find the NovelKeys Cream to be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide a similar tactile experience and feel when typing.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is known for offering a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback. While the exact sound profile of the switch is not described, it can be expected to provide a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream is described as having a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. This means that these switches will produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, along with a higher-pitched and clean sound profile. Overall, both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, although the Cream switches have a deeper and more immersive auditory experience.

In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches are described as easy-to-press and mild, offering a gentle and low-impact typing experience. These switches have an easy actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue. Additionally, they are stepped switches, meaning they have a mild tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. They have a uniform and effortless typing sensation, making each keystroke seamless. Although the Cream switches do not have a specific description regarding actuation force or snappiness, they can be expected to offer a moderate to firm actuation force, along with an invigorating and reactive feel.

Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a medium-high pitch with a delightful tactile sensation, the Cream switches offer a deeper sound profile and a buttery typing experience. Both switches have their own merits and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you are looking for a switch with a gentle tactile sensation and a medium-high pitch, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper sound and a smooth keystroke, the Cream switches would be a great option. It's important to keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that provides a subtle tactile sensation and a medium-high pitch sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer an easy-to-press feel with a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser ensures that your RGB lighting shines brighter, enhancing your visual experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier linear typing experience with a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch would be the better option. These switches offer a buttery and invigorating typing feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Ultimately, your choice would depend on your preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more