HMX Deep Navy vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver is as intriguing as it is consequential. The HMX Deep Navy switches are renowned for their rich and sharp sound profile, resulting from a full nylon construction that promises durability and a luxurious feel. Their silky smooth keystrokes make them an appealing option for typists who appreciate a tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches prioritize gaming performance, featuring a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, which allows for rapid key presses and enhanced responsiveness, perfect for those who seek a competitive edge. With their vibrant RGB lighting capabilities and exciting auditory feedback, they are ideal for gamers looking to immerse themselves in their digital worlds without breaking the bank. While both switches have distinct advantages catering to different user needs—be it the Deep Navy's elite typing experience or the Silver’s gaming prowess—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, there is a distinct contrast in their top housing configurations. The Deep Navy utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer composition, which tends to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller auditory experience. This characteristic allows for a more muted response during typing, producing a duller and rounder sound profile that many users find satisfying and cozy. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. The transparency of the polycarbonate adds an aesthetic advantage, particularly for those who enjoy RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through and enhances visual effects.
However, both the HMX Deep Navy and G Pro 3.0 Silver share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both utilize nylon. This means that when it comes to the bottoming out of each switch, users will encounter a similar deeper and fuller sound profile that nylon provides. Given that nylon is known for absorbing sound well, the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent auditory experience during this phase of actuation. Therefore, despite the differences in the top housing materials, users will find that the quality of sound and feel at the bottom-out stage will be similar across both switches, as the nylon uniformly delivers a warm tone that harmonizes well with typing.
Ultimately, the differing characteristics of the top and bottom housings in the HMX Deep Navy and G Pro 3.0 Silver create a unique typing experience shaped by their specific materials. The nylon top housing of the Deep Navy delivers a soft and muted sound while the polycarbonate top of the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a more explosive and bright auditory experience. However, since both switches employ nylon for the bottom housing, the resultant sound profile during the bottom-out phase remains uniformly deep and full regardless of the differing top housings. This interplay of materials results in nuanced yet complementary auditory responses, allowing users to select their switches based on desired upper and lower sound impacts while still experiencing familiar depth in keypress feedback.
Weight
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch showcase different actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly influence typing and gaming experiences. The Deep Navy features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with less effort, ideal for prolonged use and minimizing fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users prefer for a tactile sensation during keystrokes. Therefore, for those who enjoy a lighter touch, the Deep Navy is the better option, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver caters to those who favor a heftier typing experience. Overall, both switches are considered light, but the Deep Navy is lighter than the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, there is a slight but notable difference. The Deep Navy switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, classifying it as the shorter switch. This means that users who prefer a more pronounced key feel may gravitate towards the Deep Navy, as its greater travel distance could provide a more satisfying depth. On the other hand, gamers or those seeking rapid key response times might favor the G Pro 3.0 Silver for its shorter travel, which allows for quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding the balance of depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver 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 Silver 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch produces a rich and sharp auditory profile due to its full nylon construction, which contributes to a distinct, pleasant tone during key presses. The sound is designed to immerse users, and while the specific acoustic characteristics are not detailed, its crafted nature suggests a higher quality output. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a more bassy and low-pitched sound, characterized by a thocky quality that results in a satisfying, deep "thud" feeling when keys are pressed. This combination of auditory cues can create an engaging environment, especially for gaming, though the ultimate sound experience can vary depending on the keyboard and keycap choices.
As for feel, the HMX Deep Navy switch is noted for providing a silky smoothness with each keystroke, although specific descriptors related to its tactile feedback have not been provided, leaving some aspects open to interpretation. Meanwhile, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is characterized by its buttery and creamy sensations, offering a seamless and fluid typing experience that can be attributed to either factory lubrication or specific materials used in its construction. This smoothness allows for effortless typing, making it particularly appealing for users who prioritize a uniform keystroke sensation in their daily tasks or gaming sessions.
In summation, both the HMX Deep Navy and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches have their unique appeal, catering to different preferences in sound and feel. The Deep Navy excels in rich auditory quality and smooth keystrokes, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver emphasizes a deeper sound profile combined with a fast, responsive, and buttery feel. Although they share some qualities, such as smooth keystrokes, they ultimately target different user experiences, allowing enthusiasts to choose based on their specific preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, your choice should be based on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a richer auditory experience with a deep and thocky sound profile, along with a silky smooth keystroke, the Deep Navy switch may be your best bet. Its lighter actuation force and full nylon construction provide a satisfying typing sensation that can enhance both casual use and immersive keyboard experiences. On the other hand, if you are primarily focused on gaming and the need for quick, responsive keystrokes, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the way to go. Its shorter travel distance allows for rapid key presses, which is crucial for competitive gaming, while the buttery and creamy feel ensures comfort during prolonged sessions. Moreover, its vibrant RGB compatibility adds a visually appealing element to your setup. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it's the auditory feedback and feel of the Deep Navy or the performance advantages and aesthetics of the G Pro 3.0 Silver—in order to make an informed decision that enhances your typing or gaming experience.
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