HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing effortless and enjoyable. With its glittery housing and clacky sound signature, it provides a visually and audibly satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are known for their budget-friendly yet high-performance gaming capabilities. With a shorter travel distance for faster responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting for a visually appealing setup, these switches offer excellent value for gamers. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Blue Topaz utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate bottom housing, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing composition. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate bottom housing. This contrast in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing feel and sound of the switches, giving users a diverse range of options based on their preferences.
The split between the different housing materials in the Blue Topaz and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver results in a variation in sound and feel when typing on the switches. The bottom housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing material will influence the sound when letting go of a key. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users determine which switch aligns best with their preferences and desired sound profile.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch both offer a light actuation force, with the Blue Topaz at 40 grams and the G Pro 3.0 Silver at 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Topaz requires 48 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver needs 50 grams, making the latter slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, either switch would provide similar results in terms of actuation force, but for those who prefer a more substantial push feel, the Blue Topaz would be the lighter option, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the heavier choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth linear feel with relatively light actuation forces, catering to different preferences when it comes to typing or gaming.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, we find that the Blue Topaz has a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's 3.4 mm. This means that the Blue Topaz will provide a slightly deeper keystroke feel compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver. While both switches offer a linear typing experience, the difference in travel distance may result in a subtle variation in typing feel. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Silver with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more robust keystroke may lean towards the Blue Topaz. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on 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 Silver 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 Silver for $3.27.
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 Blue Topaz linear switch is well-known for its clacky sound signature, which provides users with a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, giving a deeper and richer auditory feedback to users. While the Blue Topaz leans towards a crisp and bright sound, the G Pro Silver switch provides a more mellow and thocky tone. Ultimately, the sound preference would depend on personal taste, with the Blue Topaz offering a clacky and sharp sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a deeper and richer audio experience.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate. This results in a typing experience that is effortless, comfortable, and ultimately reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing users with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The seamless and uniform typing sensation of the G Pro Silver switch enhances the overall typing experience, allowing users to glide effortlessly across the keys with each keystroke feeling silky and smooth.
Overall, both the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the G Pro Silver switch offers a bassy sound and buttery typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the distinctive characteristics of these switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup. Additionally, both switches provide a high level of performance, ensuring that users will get a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that align with your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a super smooth actuation, lightweight feel, and a visually striking keyboard with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value lightning-fast responsiveness, vibrant RGB lighting, a medium-high pitch sound profile, and a budget-friendly option for a top-notch gaming experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is your best bet. Ultimately, your choice should be based on how each switch's features match your desired typing or gaming experience.
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