HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow both stand out, each bringing unique attributes to the typing experience. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its lighter actuation force and clacky sound profile, making it ideal for enthusiasts who prefer a breezy yet satisfying typing experience with its silky smooth feel. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow excels as a budget-friendly linear switch, known for its higher-pitched clacky sound and bouncier typing sensation, perfect for those seeking a lively feel without breaking the bank. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on user preference for sound and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which in turn significantly affects their sound profiles. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top housing, known for its softer composition, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. This acoustic characteristic arises from nylon's ability to absorb sound waves, creating a duller, rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow employs a polycarbonate top housing that yields a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its rigidity. This stiffer plastic promotes a clearer resonance, particularly advantageous in setups with RGB lighting where the translucence of polycarbonate enhances visual effects. As such, while both switches can articulate sound, their materials lend themselves to distinctly different auditory perceptions.
Interestingly, both switches share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This commonality allows them to deliver similar tactile and auditory experiences upon bottoming out. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, reinforcing the rounded quality that both switches exhibit in this aspect. While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow’s top housing might produce a crisper sound, the similar nylon materials in the bottom housing ensure that users will experience a harmonious continuity in sound when the key is fully pressed down. This synergy ultimately emphasizes the tactile experience that enthusiasts often seek in mechanical keyboards.
In terms of overall switch performance, the combination of differing top housing materials and matching bottom housing materials creates a fascinating comparison. The Cloud - 50g leans towards a deeper auditory experience due to its nylon top, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a crisper sound profile from its polycarbonate casing. Nonetheless, their shared nylon bottom housing creates a foundational similarity in sound and feel as the switches bottom out. Therefore, whether one prefers the rounded acoustics of the Cloud - 50g or the sharper tones of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, the inherent qualities of nylon ensure a consistent tactile satisfaction across both switches, providing users with nuanced yet complementary typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom-out force emerge. The Cloud - 50g switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience that allows for longer usage periods without fatigue. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom-out force of 67 grams, catering to users who appreciate a firmer and more substantial feel when typing or gaming. As a result, those who favor a lighter switch for extended use would likely opt for the HMX Cloud - 50g, while those seeking a more tactile response might lean towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, the HMX Cloud features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a more traditional and deeper feel, which can be more satisfying for users who appreciate a hearty tactile response. Conversely, the HMX Cloud’s shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, aligning with the trend toward shorter travel distances that many modern users prefer. Ultimately, if you prioritize rapid input, the HMX Cloud would be the better choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be favored by those who enjoy a more pronounced key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 50g 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 - 50g for $2.99.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 Cloud - 50g switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a bright and engaging auditory experience that many typing enthusiasts appreciate. In comparison, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch offers a higher-pitched clacky sound coupled with resonant qualities. This results in a sharp, crisp sound that is clean and immersive, appealing to those who prefer a bright tone over more bass-heavy options. Both switches deliver an enjoyable acoustic experience, but the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may cater to those looking for a sharper, more resonant sound.
When considering the feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch boasts a silky smooth typing experience that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is described as having a polished and creamy feel, which enhances the overall typing experience. The smoothness stems from either high-quality materials or factory lubrication, allowing for a seamless key travel that feels luxurious and refined. While both switches offer smooth action, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a slightly different texture with its creamy disposition, making it feel effortless and almost buttery during typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are excellent choices for those who prioritize linear switch characteristics. The HMX Cloud - 50g is ideal for users who enjoy a bright and clacky sound combined with a silky smooth feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a sharper acoustic profile with a polished and creamy typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, making them great options for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound. If you favor a lighter switch that offers a bright, clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel, then the HMX Cloud - 50g is an excellent option. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a fun and lively typing experience, making it perfect for gaming or casual typing where speed and agility are prioritized. On the other hand, if you seek a more robust typing experience with a medium-heavy force that provides a polished and creamy feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be the better choice. This switch’s high-pitched, resonant sound adds a layer of auditory engagement that suits intensive typing sessions or extended work, as well as a refined typing experience. Ultimately, assess whether you prefer a lighter, brighter feel or a more substantial, polished one to choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and acoustic preferences.
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