HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is favored by enthusiasts for its clacky sound profile and heavier feel, providing a bright typing experience with a silky smooth touch. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red offers a budget-friendly option with a smooth typing experience and medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'High-pitched', the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is described as 'Creamy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Polished', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different 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
56g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The aesthetic difference is also notable, as the polycarbonate material allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Despite the differences in sound and appearance, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red use nylon material. This choice results in a similar sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller tone compared to harder plastics. The nylon bottom housing provides a consistent experience in terms of sound and feel across both switches. While this consistency may appeal to users who prioritize a specific sound profile, it also limits the potential for varied tactile responses compared to switches with different top and bottom housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red ultimately comes down to individual preferences for sound and feel. The nylon top and bottom housing of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g offer a softer, more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red provide a crisper and more resonant sound experience. Whether you prefer the deeper tones of nylon or the sharper sound of polycarbonate, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter in both aspects. The Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter choice. For those who prefer a softer touch and a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be the suitable option. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g for its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be lighter or heavier touch.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches provide a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, with the G Pro being the longer of the two. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Cloud - 63.5g, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is best described as clacky, providing a sharp and percussive sound that resonates with enthusiasts seeking a bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement that caters to a wide range of users. Both switches have their unique sound characteristics, with the Cloud - 63.5g being louder and more intense, while the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a more balanced and versatile auditory experience depending on your preference and environment.
In terms of feel, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches boast a creamy typing experience that is smooth and buttery. The Cloud - 63.5g switch is also described as bouncy, providing a lively feedback sensation that enhances typing performance. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a mild typing experience that caters to a wider range of users. Additionally, the polished and silky feel of both switches ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, making each keystroke effortless and enjoyable.
Overall, when comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is evident that they both offer a premium typing experience with their creamy, smooth feel. The Cloud - 63.5g stands out with its clacky sound profile and bouncy feedback sensation, appealing to enthusiasts looking for a more intense typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, catering to a wider audience with its neutral sound profile and mild typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both options provide exceptional quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a bright, clacky sound profile with a silky smooth feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing experience with a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences to enhance your overall typing performance and enjoyment.
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