Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. HMX Jelly
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Jelly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Jelly present two distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts and casual users alike. The G Pro 3.0 Black, a flagship of Gateron's lineup, is recognized for its robust construction and heavier actuation force of 60g, making it perfect for those who appreciate a more substantial typing feel and a tactile connection with every keystroke. Its vibrant RGB compatibility also enhances the aesthetic experience of gaming or office setups. Conversely, the HMX Jelly caters to gamers and typists who prioritize smoothness and a satisfying sound profile with its lightweight 42g actuation and a low-pitched, deep thocky sound. Ideal for those who prefer a softer touch while maintaining an enjoyable auditory experience, the Jelly stands out for its excellent factory lubrication. Both switches offer unique characteristics that suit different preferences and styles, but 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
60g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Jelly demonstrate distinct characteristics in their housing materials that result in unique sound profiles and tactile experiences while typing. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This sharper, clackier sound adds a lively element to the typing experience. Conversely, the HMX Jelly employs a nylon top housing that embodies a classic design, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in material significantly influences the auditory sensation experienced by the user, with the G Pro 3.0 Black’s blend enhancing clarity, while the Jelly’s nylon fosters a warmer, rounder tone.
Looking at the bottom housings, the G Pro 3.0 Black’s POM construction offers a muted and deeper sound profile that contributes to an overall satisfying auditory feedback upon bottoming out. In contrast, the Jelly's nylon bottom housing carries similar sound-absorbing properties to its top housing, leading to a more cohesive type feel that resonates with the housing's acoustic signature. Although both switches utilize nylon in the Jelly, the G Pro’s POM offers a different textural quality that can refine the sound dynamics even further when pressed down on. The bottom housing indeed plays a critical role in the final sound experience, ensuring that the G Pro 3.0 Black maintains a distinct but pleasing timbre.
While the differences between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Jelly may lead to unique experiences, certain similarities in sound absorption characteristics can be leveraged when it comes to their overall performance. Both the POM and nylon materials provide inherent acoustic dampening, creating ways for both switches to cater to users who appreciate a subdued typing sound profile. Therefore, despite their contrasting top housing materials, users may find that the G Pro 3.0 Black and HMX Jelly can achieve similar typing experiences, yielding satisfying results for different preferences in auditory feedback while enjoying a cohesive tactile engagement.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, there is a clear distinction in force requirements that may influence user preference. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, classifying it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the HMX Jelly boasts a significantly lighter actuation force of just 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a preferable choice for those seeking a softer typing experience. This substantial difference means that while the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more robust feel with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, the Jelly's lighter touch can facilitate extended typing sessions, minimizing fatigue. Thus, for users who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Black is the better option, while the Jelly caters to those who prioritize a comfortable and effortless keypress.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, notable differences emerge. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Jelly features a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Black the longer option, providing a deeper feel that may appeal to users who favor a more substantial keypress. In contrast, the shorter 3.8 mm travel distance of the HMX Jelly can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times, though some may find it feels too abrupt compared to the longer option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for keypress depth and sensitivity.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has a medium-high pitch that gives it a somewhat clacky auditory profile, characterized by a crisp and snappy sound when pressed. This switch can produce a lively, percussive noise, making it distinct in acoustic presence, which some users might find satisfying during typing. On the other hand, the HMX Jelly switch is renowned for its low-pitched, thocky sound signature. This deeper tone tends to create a more grounded and subdued auditory experience. The choice between the two switches for sound will largely depend on personal preference, as the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a brighter auditory experience, while the Jelly provides a deeper, more resonant sound.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black is notably smooth, boasting descriptors like creamy and silky to describe its typing experience. This implies a buttery, effortless glide across the keys, making it a joy to type on. The gentle resistance also ensures a balance between feedback and ease of use, suitable for prolonged typing sessions. The Jelly switch, however, is noted for its very smooth operation due to effective factory lubrication and lightweight actuation. While the Jelly's actuation force is significantly lighter at 42g compared to the G Pro 3.0's 60g, providing a different tactile experience, both switches excel in delivering a satisfying and smooth feel, albeit with contrasting weights.
In summary, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and HMX Jelly linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in sound and feel, appealing to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The G Pro 3.0 Black is more focused on a lively, clacky auditory signature with a heavier, more substantive feel, while the Jelly switch delivers a deep thock and a lighter typing experience. Choosing between them will depend on what characteristics you prioritize, whether it be the sound dynamics or the typing resistance. Regardless of which switch you select, both options promise a delightful typing experience tailored to various user needs.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Jelly linear switch, your typing habits and preferences should guide your decision. If you prefer a more substantial typing experience that offers a medium-heavy feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black is ideal for you. With its 70g bottom-out force and creamy, silky feedback, this switch provides a satisfying tactile presence, making it particularly suitable for typing enthusiasts who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke and the benefits of enhanced RGB visibility due to its frosted light diffuser. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter typing experience, the HMX Jelly linear switch will likely be more to your liking. With its 48g bottom-out force and smooth operation, this switch is perfect for those who value speed and responsiveness, such as gamers or anyone who prefers rapid key presses. The Jelly's deeper, thocky sound signature and lightweight feel can also make it a more pleasant choice for extended typing sessions or environments where quieter operation is preferred. Thus, consider your typing style and environment to make an informed choice between these two excellent switch options.
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