HMX EMO vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the HMX EMO and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The HMX EMO switch offers a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black by Gateron boasts a heavier 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a medium-high pitch auditory experience and features a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting effects. While the EMO switch may be more satisfying and smooth for some, the G Pro 3.0 Black is ideal for those looking for a medium-heavy switch with vibrant lighting effects. 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
40g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The EMO utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound with its stiffer plastic composition. This results in a higher-pitched sound that is especially vibrant when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a proprietary INK blend top housing, which offers a pointed and slightly high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both housings aim to enhance the overall typing experience, they provide different auditory sensations for the user.
In terms of bottom housing material, the EMO features a nylon housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder, duller sound profile. On the other hand, POM housings are praised for their pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, providing a more muted sound experience. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall typing feel and sound profile of each switch.
While the HMX EMO and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black have differing top and bottom housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings means that each component plays a specific role in the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Ultimately, the choice between the EMO's polycarbonate and nylon housing and the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend and POM housing will come down to personal preference and the desired sound profile for each individual user.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is clear that the EMO is the lighter option. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it the heavier of the two. The difference in force can greatly impact the typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the EMO, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is evident that the EMO has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black's 4 mm travel distance. The shorter travel distance of the EMO may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Black may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their respective travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding which one to choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black 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 Black 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
In terms of sound, the HMX EMO switch offers a lively and clacky typing experience, with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch provides a medium-high pitched sound, creating a more subdued typing experience that is not completely silent but offers a more subtle sound signature. When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch is described as creamy and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like effortlessly gliding across the keys. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a medium-heavy feel with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force, providing a subtle yet gentle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. Overall, the EMO switch stands out for its bouncy and satisfying feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a more substantive typing experience with a frosted light diffuser to enhance RGB lighting effects. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to a variety of typing needs. Additionally, it's important to consider other factors such as choice of keyboard and keycaps to maximize the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a lively and bouncy feel with a light touch, the EMO with its 46g bottom-out force might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy feel and balanced actuation, the G Pro 3.0 Black with its 70g bottom-out force could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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