HMX EVA vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and usage style, with the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch embodying two distinct approaches. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience and a resonant sound signature, making it an ideal option for users who prioritize fluid keystrokes without the distraction of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a delightful combination of comfort and engagement with its subtle tactile bump, designed to provide satisfying feedback without interrupting your typing rhythm. It also enhances the visual experience with a frosted light diffuser that amplifies RGB lighting, appealing to gamers and enthusiasts alike. Both switches present unique advantages: the EVA for those who enjoy uninhibited typing and the G Pro Brown for those seeking a balance between tactile sensation and auditory pleasure. 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
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
T2
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-stage spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The HMX EVA and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches present a fascinating study in contrasting sound profiles and aesthetic considerations based on their housing materials. The HMX EVA utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is known for creating a deeper, fuller sound profile, partially due to the material's softer and more sound-absorbing nature. This quality produces a duller and rounder sound when typing, appealing to users who prefer a more muted auditory feedback during their typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown employs a polycarbonate top housing, distinguished by its stiffer properties that yield a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The clear nature of polycarbonate not only enhances sound clarity but also contributes to a more pronounced resonance, which is particularly beneficial for users who appreciate the aesthetics of RGB lighting.
When examining the bottom housings, however, both the HMX EVA and G Pro 3.0 Brown utilize nylon, leading to a consistent quality in their typing experiences at this level. The nylon bottom housing is celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound, similar to the top housing of the EVA. This shared material ensures that when users bottom out the keys on both switches, they will experience a sound that is cushioned and rich, creating a pleasant tactile feedback. In this case, while the top housings diverge in material and resultant sound, the similarity in the bottom housings contributes to a unified experience when pressing down on the keys.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings for the HMX EVA and G Pro 3.0 Brown leads to a unique typing experience influenced by the characteristics of each housing. The EVA's nylon top provides a rounded sound during key releases, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown’s polycarbonate offers crisper auditory feedback. However, because both switches share nylon in their bottom housings, they maintain a similarity in depth of sound when bottoming out. Thus, while users can expect distinct auditory experiences upon key release, the overall feel during the act of typing remains robustly similar, creating a compelling comparison of how varied materials can nonetheless contribute to an enjoyable keyboard experience.
Weight
The HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch offer distinct actuation and bottom-out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The EVA features a notably lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 48 grams, making it a great choice for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom-out force of 63 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial mechanical feel when typing. While both switches provide unique feedback and experiences, the EVA's lighter force allows for quicker keystrokes with less effort, making it suitable for those who prioritize comfort over a tactile response. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's heavier forces give a more pronounced sensation, which some users may find satisfying for their typing style. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding weight and resistance.
Travel distance
The HMX EVA linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the EVA a shorter option compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown, which aligns with the trend of short travel distances favored by gamers for quicker response times. However, those who prefer the tactile feedback and depth of a longer travel distance may find the 4 mm of the G Pro 3.0 Brown more appealing. Ultimately, if you're looking for a more responsive experience, the HMX EVA may be preferable, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a more traditional and hearty feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX EVA has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EVA for $2.99.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown 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 Brown 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 EVA linear switch features a resonant sound signature that is unique and distinct, designed to provide an engaging auditory experience. This resonance can create a satisfying backdrop to your typing sessions, especially if you're using it with a compatible keyboard that enhances these qualities. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown produces a medium-high pitch that offers delightful auditory feedback without being overwhelming. This sound is subtle yet pleasant, contributing to a balanced typing environment. It's important to note, however, that the actual sound profile can vary based on the keyboard build and keycap choices, which means users of both switches can customize their sound experience.
Regarding feel, the HMX EVA linear switch is lauded for its silky smooth typing experience, making it ideal for users who desire a seamless key press without any tactile bumps. This smoothness allows for quick and fluid typing, contributing to a satisfying overall experience. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch provides an easy-to-press feel with a gentle yet noticeable bump, characterizing it as a mild and approachable option. Its stepped nature makes it less aggressive than hyper-tactile switches, allowing users to enjoy tactile feedback while experiencing reduced finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Overall, the G Pro Brown balances tactile sensation and light actuation force, offering a typing feel that promotes comfort and responsiveness.
Considering both switches, the HMX EVA offers a distinctly resonant sound and a smooth feel, ideal for those who prioritize a fluid typing experience, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown strikes a balance with its satisfying tactile bump and pleasing sound profile. Users looking for a linear switch that emphasizes smoothness and resonance will appreciate the EVA, whereas those who prefer a tactile sensation without an overwhelming typing experience might lean towards the G Pro Brown. Ultimately, both switches can cater to different preferences, and the choice between them could simply come down to whether you value a linear or tactile experience in your typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter keystroke with an exceptionally smooth typing experience and a unique sound signature, the HMX EVA is an excellent choice. Its 48-gram actuation force means you can type effortlessly, making it ideal for extended sessions where comfort is a priority. Its aesthetic appeal, inspired by Evangelion Unit-01, also adds a creative touch to your setup. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback that provides a satisfying yet subtle "bump" during your key presses, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is a reliable option. With a 63-gram actuation force, it offers a solid medium resistance that feels robust without being too taxing on the fingers, suited for both typing and gaming. The G Pro Brown's frosted design enhances RGB lighting, making it visually appealing, while its mild audio characteristics deliver pleasant auditory feedback to enrich your typing experience. Therefore, assess what you value more—smoothness and lightness with the EVA or tactile feedback and a bit more resistance with the G Pro 3.0 Brown—to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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