HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often face the choice between different tactile experiences, and two notable linear switches that stand out are the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its lighter actuation force and clacky sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a bright and responsive typing experience, characterized by a silky smooth feel. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a heavier actuation force at 60g and bottom-out force of 70g, providing a more substantive feel that many typists and gamers may prefer; its medium-high pitch auditory experience delivers a satisfying feedback while typing. The G Pro 3.0 Black also features a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting effects, appealing to those who want both aesthetics and performance. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in typing weight and auditory feedback, making them great options within the linear category. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, it becomes clear that there are significant differences in their construction, impacting both the sound and feel of each switch. The Cloud - 50g features nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material well-regarded in the mechanical keyboard community for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller audio profile. This softness in nylon helps create a more muted environment when typing, facilitating a rounder and duller sound that many users find pleasing. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black employs a unique proprietary INK blend plastic for its top housing, which tends to generate a sharper, more clacky sound. This higher-pitched sound can produce a distinct typing experience that feels less subdued than that of the Cloud - 50g.

The bottom housing of each switch also contributes to their overall auditory experience, with the Cloud - 50g’s nylon bottom maintaining the similar soft characteristics found in its top. This consistency ensures that the overall sound profile remains rich and deep when the key is bottomed out, reinforcing the subdued sound expected from this switch. On the contrary, the G Pro 3.0 Black uses a POM bottom housing, known for providing a muted yet somewhat deeper sound. The POM material allows for a unique auditory character that is less pronounced than nylon but still offers an enticing sound that many users enjoy. With the combination of high-pitched top housing and deeper bottom housing in the G Pro 3.0, we see an intentional balance designed to deliver a distinctive dual-tone typing experience.

Ultimately, despite their varying materials, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black can provide satisfying auditory feedback. The nylon used in both the top and bottom of the Cloud - 50g ensures a consistent, deep sound, whereas the diverse materials in the G Pro 3.0 create a layered sound experience that is both high-pitched and muffled. If users seek a sound profile reminiscent of either switch, they can achieve similar results by carefully manipulating their typing style and techniques to emphasize the qualities of the materials present. Thus, while the housing materials differ significantly between the two switches, the sound profiles can still be enjoyed in their unique ways through thoughtful engagement with each switch.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, there are notable differences in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX Cloud switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feedback in their typing experience. While both switches serve distinct preferences, it is clear that the HMX Cloud - 50g is the lighter option, which favors users looking for comfort over prolonged use, while the G Pro 3.0 Black is the heavier one, appealing to those who appreciate a firmer push during typing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, the two exhibit a slight difference in their specifications. The HMX Cloud switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Black features a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the HMX Cloud the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that can be preferable for gamers seeking quicker key presses. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black's longer travel distance of 4.0 mm may appeal to those who appreciate a deeper keystroke, providing a sturdier typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences: users inclined towards rapid response times might favor the HMX Cloud, while those who enjoy a more traditional and pronounced keypress may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch offers a bright and clacky auditory experience, making it appealing for those who appreciate a lively and engaging typing atmosphere. This sharp, crisp sound profile allows for a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke, lending itself well to typing enthusiasts who enjoy the tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more subdued auditory experience with its medium-high pitch. While it lacks the overt clackiness of the Cloud switch, its sound is still distinct, offering a balance that doesn't overwhelm but ensures each keypress is noticeable. It's important to note that the final sound profile will be influenced by factors such as keyboard design and keycap material.

When we delve into the feel of these switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is renowned for its silky smoothness, allowing for effortless keypresses that glide seamlessly under the fingers. This ease of typing makes it particularly enjoyable for prolonged use, as there’s less resistance to fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch presents a creamy and silky texture, enhanced by the factory lubrication that provides an exceptional smooth typing experience. It offers a more substantive feel with medium-heavy resistance, delivering a sense of comfort and control that appeals to users looking for a heavier switch without being overly taxing on the fingers. The difference in actuation force also contributes to varied typing experiences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black encouraging a more deliberate press compared to the lighter 50g variant of the Cloud switch.

In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switches present unique characteristics that appeal to different typing preferences. The Cloud switch is designed for those who favor a bright and engaging sound coupled with an incredibly smooth typing feel. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a subdued auditory experience balanced with a medium-heavy tactile sensation. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can yield satisfying results, but they cater to slightly different typing styles, making it essential to consider what fits your needs best.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re looking for a lighter switch with a vibrant, clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a bright typing experience and might find themselves typing for extended periods, making it ideal for casual use or gaming scenarios where rapid key presses are beneficial. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium-heavy actuation that offers tactile feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be more suitable. This switch appeals to those who appreciate a creamy, silky typing sensation, alongside a higher bottom-out force. It’s particularly well-suited for users who type with more force or prefer a more pronounced key press without sacrificing RGB aesthetics. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the balance you seek between actuation force, sound profile, and tactile response, ensuring you select a switch that complements your unique typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more