HMX Cheese vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese switch stands out for its ultra-lightweight feel and satisfyingly clacky sound, providing a smooth and pristine typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch from the budget-friendly G Pro line-up offers a balance between responsiveness and ease of use with its medium-light actuation force. Additionally, the G Pro Red features a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting effects and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory experience. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics tailored to different needs and preferences. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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-staged spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, we see that the Cheese utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in housing materials affects the overall typing experience, with the Cheese offering a more rounded sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a clearer and more resonant sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the HMX Cheese and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing. This similarity ensures that both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. While the top housing material may vary between the two switches, the consistency in the bottom housing material highlights how certain characteristics can be maintained across different switches, providing a familiar typing experience for users who prefer the qualities nylon brings to the table.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cheese and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. The nylon housing in the Cheese offers a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate housing in the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a sharper and more resonant sound. Depending on whether you prefer a softer, more absorbing typing experience or a crisper, clearer sound, you can make an informed decision based on the housing materials used in each switch. Each switch's unique housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience, showcasing how different plastics can impact sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese is lighter in both aspects. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, with the Cheese being slightly lighter than the G Pro 3.0 Red. For those who prefer a lighter typing touch to avoid fatigue during extended use, the Cheese may be the preferred option. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of resistance when pressing keys.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cheese offers a quicker response time due to its shorter distance, making it more appealing to gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a deeper key press, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and desired typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so users can expect similar results in terms of functionality and performance regardless of the slight difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red 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, the HMX Cheese switch is best known for its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, providing an unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate pitch and actuation force, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Cheese switch leaning towards a lighter and more distinctive sound, while the G Pro Red switch provides a balanced and versatile sound profile.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Cheese switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness. The Cheese switch's feel may vary, but the G Pro Red switch is designed to provide a gentle and refined typing feel that appeals to a broad audience. Whether you prefer a more distinct tactile sensation or a smoother typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities to cater to different preferences.
Overall, while the HMX Cheese switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offer different sound and feel experiences, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. The Cheese switch excels in delivering a distinct and light sound profile with unparalleled smoothness, while the G Pro Red switch offers a versatile and creamy typing feel that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches have their own strengths and qualities that can enhance your typing performance. Ultimately, choosing between the Cheese and the G Pro Red will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, consider your preferences for key feel and sound. If you appreciate an ultra-light switch with a satisfying clacky sound and pristine typing experience, then the HMX Cheese switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light actuation force that provides a smooth and creamy typing experience, along with bright RGB lighting effects, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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