HMX EVA vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA 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 nuances of each can significantly affect your typing and gaming experience. The HMX EVA switch, inspired by the vibrant colors of Evangelion Unit-01, offers a resonant sound signature and a silky smooth feel, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a tactile pleasure during everyday typing or for creative endeavors. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches, part of a budget-friendly line-up, are designed with gamers in mind. With a reduced travel distance of 3.4mm, they deliver an exceptional speed that can enhance your performance in fast-paced games, paired with RGB lighting to elevate your setup’s aesthetics. While the EVA emphasizes a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, the G Pro Silver focuses on quick response times and vibrant gaming features. However, let's dive 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The HMX EVA and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches exhibit distinct characteristics primarily due to their differing materials used for the top housing. The EVA features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely attributed to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. As such, the sounds produced by the EVA are less sharp and more rounded, providing a typing experience that many users appreciate for its warm auditory feedback. On the contrary, the G Pro 3.0 Silver employs a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a crisper and higher-pitched sound profile. Its stiffer composition allows for more resonance and clarity in sound, catering to those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing.
In contrast to the differences in their top housings, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, resulting in a shared auditory character. This material choice is foundational to both models, as nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile once a key is bottomed out. Given that the bottom housing largely influences the bottom-out feel and sound, users can anticipate a similar experience when pressing the keys of both the HMX EVA and G Pro 3.0 Silver. While the top housing defines the typing experience and auditory feedback upon releasing a key, the common nylon used in the bottom housing ensures that the fundamental feel and sound remain familiar across both switches.
Ultimately, the combination of diverse materials in the top housings and the same material in the bottom housings creates a unique dynamic between the two switches. Users seeking a warm and muted sound profile will find solace in the HMX EVA, while those who favor a sharper and clearer auditory feedback will prefer the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver. Regardless, the commonality in the nylon bottom housing allows for a unified feel at the base of both switches, demonstrating how the variation in top housing materials can significantly influence overall acoustics while still maintaining a semblance of familiar typing sensations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, we find some notable distinctions. The EVA switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the EVA switch the lighter option, which may appeal to users who favor less resistance for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver, being heavier, might provide a more substantial typing experience favored by those who prefer a stronger push feel. Therefore, while both switches are categorized as light, the EVA offers a marginally easier keystroke, resulting in a different tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, the EVA stands out with a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option between the two. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference means that users who opt for the EVA may appreciate the deeper keystroke, which can provide a more tactile feel, while those who choose the G Pro 3.0 Silver might benefit from a quicker response time, often favored by gamers for faster actions during gameplay. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for depth versus responsiveness, with the EVA switch being ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke and the G Pro 3.0 Silver appealing to those who prioritize speed.
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 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 EVA linear switch delivers a resonant sound signature that is likely pleasing to the ears, but specifics about its tonal characteristics remain unspecified. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is clearly defined by its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky qualities. This combination results in a deeper, richer sound profile that emits a satisfying thud upon key press and release. While both switches provide a unique auditory experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver stands out for its pronounced sound characteristics, which can enhance the gaming experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX EVA's attributes have not been explicitly detailed; however, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver is known for its buttery and creamy sensations. This smooth and fluid keystroke experience allows typists and gamers to glide across the keys effortlessly, providing a uniform typing sensation that contributes to comfort during extended use. While the EVA's feel remains a mystery, the G Pro's well-documented smoothness suggests a heightened ease of use that many may prefer for competitive gaming.
In summary, while the HMX EVA linear switch offers a resonant auditory experience that may appeal to some users, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is characterized by its distinct bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. The feel of the EVA is not described, but the G Pro 3.0 Silver excels with its buttery and creamy typing experience. Users seeking an enhanced gaming experience with immediate tactile feedback may gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 due to its unique attributes, while those drawn to the aesthetic of the EVA will likely appreciate its visual appeal and resonant sound. Overall, the best choice depends on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feel, and both switches can deliver enjoyable performance in their own right.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch ultimately hinges on your primary usage and personal preferences. If you are an avid gamer looking for rapid response times and an edge in fast-paced environments, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is your go-to. With its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm and an auditory profile that enhances your gaming experience, it’s designed for those who thrive on speed and competitive play. On the other hand, if you appreciate a smoother, more resonant typing experience with a distinct auditory character, the HMX EVA linear switch stands out. Its lush, silky feel and rich sound make it an ideal choice for typing enthusiasts or those who enjoy a satisfying acoustic presence while working or gaming. Both switches feature light bottom-out forces that cater to different tastes in feel and sound, so consider what will enhance your daily interaction with your keyboard to make the right choice for your needs.
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