HMX Deep Navy vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between distinct options, each offering unique characteristics. The HMX Deep Navy switches, renowned for their full nylon construction, provide a rich auditory experience with a sharp sound profile that immerses typists in every keystroke, and the silky smoothness from their Ly stem enhances the overall tactile experience. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches represent an affordable yet premium alternative, designed particularly for those who favor a lighter touch; with an actuation force of just 38g, these switches facilitate effortless typing while featuring a frosted light diffuser that enhances RGB lighting. The G Pro White’s medium-high pitch also delivers satisfying auditory feedback, making it a delightful choice for delicate typists. While the Deep Navy excels in delivering a robust sound experience, the G Pro 3.0 White shines in its accessibility and great value for money. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The HMX Deep Navy and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches provide a fascinating contrast in their housing materials, particularly noticeable in their top housings’ composition. The Deep Navy utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 White features polycarbonate as its top housing material. This stiffer plastic contributes to a sharper and more crisper sound profile, creating a clearer resonance during typing, especially noticeable when RGB lighting shines through its translucent design. Thus, users can expect markedly different acoustic landscapes from each switch due to the distinct qualities of the materials used.
When examining the bottom housings, however, the Deep Navy and G Pro 3.0 White switches share a commonality, as both feature nylon for their lower housing. This similarity means that when typing, both switches deliver a similar experience with regard to the bottom-out feel and sound. The nylon material absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a duller, more muted auditory response that resonates well with those seeking a softer typing experience. Both switches will thus retain that deeper and fuller sound profile attributed to nylon in their bottom housing, allowing for consistency in execution even when the top housing materials diverge in nature.
The differences in top housing also signify how users can manipulate the overall sound and feel of each switch through their design. The G Pro 3.0 White's clear polycarbonate top accentuates the sharpness of its sound, enriching a typing experience catered toward clarity, particularly in a setup featuring RGB lighting. At the same time, the Deep Navy provides a fuller and more rounded auditory profile, promoting a smoother, more subdued response when keys are released. Ultimately, while the G Pro 3.0 White may deliver a brighter sound when typing, the shared nylon bottom housing allows users to achieve softer sounds during bottom out, creating an interesting interplay between the two switch designs that will cater to different preferences in typing acoustics.
Weight
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch are quite similar in terms of their bottom out force, both registering at 45 grams, which positions them in the light range of switch forces. However, when it comes to their actuation forces, the Deep Navy requires a slightly heavier force of 40 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 White's 38 grams. This makes the G Pro 3.0 White the lighter switch between the two, potentially making it a better option for users who prefer a less demanding experience during extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the HMX Deep Navy, with its higher actuation force, offers a bit more resistance, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial push feel in their typing experience. Therefore, while both switches provide a similar bottom-out experience, their actuation forces cater to slightly different preferences in how much initial pressure is needed to register a keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, we find that the Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the G Pro 3.0 White, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that users of the Deep Navy may experience quicker response times, appealing to gamers who favor a more responsive experience. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 White, with its longer travel distance, offers a more traditional and hearty depth, which some users might prefer for a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference: those favoring speed may opt for the Deep Navy, while those who appreciate a more substantial keypress might lean towards the G Pro 3.0 White.
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 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
The sound profile of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch is characterized by a rich and sharp auditory experience, attributed to its full nylon construction. This switch is designed to provide a pronounced auditory feedback that can be immersive during typing, enriching the user's engagement. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White is known for its medium-high pitch sound, described as clacky and bright, delivering a satisfying auditory feedback that can be both percussive and crisp. While the Deep Navy offers a fuller tonal quality, the G Pro White emphasizes a lighter, more playful sound, making the distinctions between the two notable yet suitable for different auditory preferences.
In terms of feel, the HMX Deep Navy switches excel in providing a silky smooth typing experience, characterized by the Ly stem, which enhances the ease of pressing each key. The design ensures that each keystroke is effortless, making it a joy to type on. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White boasts an incredibly light actuation force, making it easy to press and reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Its creamy feel provides a buttery, gliding sensation while typing, and the overall lightness contributes to a feathery touch, further enhancing comfort and responsiveness.
In conclusion, both the HMX Deep Navy and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences for users. The Deep Navy provides a richer sound and silky feel that caters to those who appreciate deeper auditory feedback and smooth keystrokes, while the G Pro 3.0 White presents a lighter, more playful sound with an incredibly comfortable feel ideal for long-term typing. Both switches cater to different preferences but promise satisfying typing experiences in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, think about your typing needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a switch that offers a rich auditory experience with a silky smooth feel, the Deep Navy is an excellent choice. Its full nylon construction and a compelling sound profile can elevate your typing experience, making it ideal for those who value both sound and feel, especially in a quieter setting. Alternatively, if you prefer a more budget-friendly option that prioritizes ease of use with its incredibly light actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 White is designed for delicate typists. Its clacky, yet crisp sound, combined with a creamy and easy-to-press feel, makes it a good choice for long typing sessions or for those who enjoy a responsive and lively keyboard experience. In essence, choose the Deep Navy for a more premium tactile and auditory experience, while the G Pro 3.0 White excels for affordability and effortless key presses, especially in shared spaces.
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