HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, you are presented with two distinct options to consider. The Blue Topaz stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, offering users a breezy typing experience with a clacky sound signature that is both visually and audibly appealing. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black showcases Gateron's commitment to premium quality at an affordable price point, with a heavier typing experience that may appeal to those seeking a more substantial feel. While the Blue Topaz is characterized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the G Pro 3.0 Black is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', 'Silky', and 'Subtle'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offer distinct sound profiles due to their differences in composition. The Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound when keys are pressed, resulting in a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a slightly higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky but not overly sharp. Despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfying sound profile that is unique to their respective materials.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing produces a deep and fuller sound when keys are pressed, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing creates a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. While the Blue Topaz offers a duller and rounder sound due to its nylon bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a deeper and more muted sound profile with its POM bottom housing.
In summary, the top and bottom housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. While the Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharp and resonant sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound profile. Similarly, the Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing creates a deep and fuller sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing offers a unique and muted sound experience. Overall, both switches excel in providing distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is lighter compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Blue Topaz would be a better choice. However, for individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be more suitable. Both switches offer different levels of force that cater to different preferences, ultimately providing users with a personalized typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. In this case, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the HMX Blue Topaz. The difference of 0.1 mm may not seem significant, but for users who are sensitive to these details, it could impact the tactile feedback and overall typing experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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
In terms of sound, both the HMX Blue Topaz and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches offer a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience when typing. This means that users can expect a crisp, bright, and percussive sound with each keystroke, adding a satisfying tactile element to their typing sessions. However, the G Pro 3.0 Black also offers a subdued sound option for those looking for a more subtle typing experience, which may be preferable in shared spaces or for users who prefer a quieter sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz switch is lauded for its easy-to-press nature, offering a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. This gentle resistance minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch boasts a creamy and silky typing experience, with smooth and buttery key presses that feel like gliding fingers across the keys. Additionally, the slight resistance of the switch enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel, making each keystroke feel effortless and refined.
In conclusion, both the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Blue Topaz provides a visually and audibly appealing clacky sound signature with an easy-to-press feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black delivers a more substantial typing experience with options for both clacky and subdued sound profiles, along with a creamy and silky smooth typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, users can choose between these switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a super smooth actuation and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, then the Blue Topaz would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a creamy and silky feel, along with a clacky and subdued sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 Black would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a lighter, smoother typing experience or a more substantial, creamier feel matched with unique sound profiles.
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