HMX Cheese vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HMX Cheese and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White. The HMX Cheese switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches stand out for being lighter than 90% of all switches, providing a unique typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a budget-friendly option with an incredibly light actuation force of only 38g, ideal for delicate typists seeking effortless and sensitive keystrokes. With a frosted light diffuser and medium-high pitch for auditory feedback, the G Pro White delivers a premium typing experience without breaking the bank. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White, we see a stark contrast in the materials used. The Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast in materials directly impacts the sound produced by each switch, catering to different preferences based on the desired sound profile.
Despite the differences in the top housing materials, both the Cheese and the G Pro 3.0 White share a nylon bottom housing. This means that when typing on these switches, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This consistent bottom housing material between the two switches highlights the importance of the bottom housing in influencing the overall sound and feel of the switch. While the top housing contributes to the sound upon key release, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a consistent typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials in switches like the HMX Cheese and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White comes down to personal preference. The nylon top housing of the Cheese offers a softer, deeper sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White produces a sharper, crisper sound. Both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a duller, rounder sound or a clearer, resonant sound, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The HMX Cheese has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 White's 38 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cheese requires 46 grams while the G Pro 3.0 White needs 45 grams, making them relatively similar in this aspect. In terms of weight, both switches can be considered light, which may be preferred by users looking for a comfortable typing experience over long periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the slight variations in actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, it is clear that the Cheese has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 White has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Cheese offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White provides a deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Cheese being the shorter option and the G Pro 3.0 White offering a longer 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 White 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 White 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cheese linear switch is best known for its smoothness and pristine typing experience with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch offers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback, making it suitable for delicate typists. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Cheese switch provides a more distinct and sharp sound, the G Pro White switch offers a brighter and more subdued sound that is still satisfying to the ear.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese switch's subjective qualities are not specified, whereas the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is described as creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle. These descriptors highlight the smooth and buttery typing experience, the gentle resistance during key presses, and the exceptionally light actuation force of the G Pro White switch. In contrast, the feel of the Cheese switch remains a mystery. This indicates that while the G Pro White switch offers a well-rounded typing experience with various positive qualities, the tactile sensation of the Cheese switch is still unknown.
Overall, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch each offer unique sound and feel characteristics that appeal to different preferences. The Cheese switch is lauded for its smoothness and distinctive sound profile, while the G Pro White switch provides a budget-friendly option with a light actuation force and brighter RGB lighting capabilities. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference for sound and typing feel. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with smooth typing or a light and feathery typing experience, both switches offer quality options that can enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize an ultra-light typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound signature, opt for the HMX Cheese switch. Its 46g bottom out force provides a smooth and pristine typing feel unlike any other switch. On the other hand, if you prefer an even lighter actuation force of 38g and a bright RGB lighting experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is the way to go. With a medium-high pitch and creamy feel, these switches offer an effortless typing experience ideal for delicate typists. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your preferences for typing sound, feel, and actuation force to enhance your overall typing satisfaction. Whichever switch you choose, both the HMX Cheese and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches are sure to elevate your typing experience to new heights.
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