Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Perky stand out as two noteworthy linear options, each catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Black is recognized for its robust build quality and significant actuation force, making it ideal for those who desire a more substantial feel while typing, supported by a medium-high pitch auditory response and enhanced RGB lighting effects from its frosted diffuser. In contrast, the HMX Perky switches emphasize a softer touch, featuring a shorter travel distance that yields a more condensed yet satisfying experience. Their glittery nylon housing adds a unique flair, resulting in a polished and silky typing feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black may appeal more to those seeking a heavier touch, the Perky switches cater to users who prefer a lighter, snappier response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Perky employ distinctly different materials for their switch housings, resulting in unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which provides a pointed and higher-pitched sound when typing. This sound is often characterized as “clacky,” making it desirable for users who prefer a crisper auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Perky's nylon top housing is associated with a deeper, fuller sound profile, which emanates from the material's softer composition that dampens sound more effectively. This divergence in top housing materials leads to a noticeable difference in the auditory feedback each switch provides when the keys are released, with the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a sharper experience compared to the Perky's rounder tones.
Examining the bottom housings further underscores the contrast between the two switches. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a POM bottom housing, which is noted for producing a unique and muted sound profile that leans towards the deeper spectrum, adding to the overall tactile experience. The distinct characteristics of POM material complement the top housing, enhancing the dampened but rich sound quality upon key bottom-out. On the other hand, the HMX Perky also employs nylon for its bottom housing, which echoes its top housing's traits to provide a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. This consistent use of nylon signifies a cohesive auditory experience across the switch, where sound absorption plays a pivotal role in creating a more rounded auditory feedback.
Despite the differences in materials, both switches demonstrate how the combination of top and bottom housing can influence the overall typing experience. While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black excels with its clacky sound via its INK blend top housing, the foundational depth and muted characteristics brought forth by its POM bottom creates a balanced sound profile. Conversely, the HMX Perky's consistent nylon housing at both ends delivers a more uniform experience, characterized by a softer and deeper tone throughout the keystroke. Users who prefer a more harmonious sound may find the Perky appealing, while those seeking more pronounced auditory feedback would favor the G Pro 3.0 Black. In essence, each switch provides a distinct experience based on their material choices, yet users can achieve satisfying results by selecting the switch that aligns with their auditory and tactile preferences.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Black requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch has a significantly lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. This difference in weight means that the Perky switch is more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, facilitating longer typing sessions and extended gaming without fatigue. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantial feel, which some may find satisfying for a firmer typing experience. Therefore, users seeking a lighter switch should opt for the HMX Perky, while those who enjoy a stronger push should consider the G Pro 3.0 Black, as the two switches cater to different preferences based on their force ratings.
Travel distance
When comparing travel distances, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch measures at 4 mm, while the HMX Perky linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference in travel distance highlights a key distinction between the two switches; the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more traditional and deeper feel, which some users prefer for a more tactile feedback during typing. Conversely, the HMX Perky’s 3.4 mm travel distance caters to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, aligning with the growing trend for shorter travel distances. Ultimately, if you favor a more pronounced key press, the G Pro 3.0 is the better choice; however, if you seek faster actuation for gaming scenarios, the HMX Perky's shorter distance may be more suitable.
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 Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky 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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Perky linear switches share notable qualities, each producing a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy upon actuation. This characteristic is defined by a crisp and bright audio signature, ensuring an engaging auditory experience during typing. It's essential to keep in mind that the sound produced by switches can be influenced by other factors, such as the choice of keyboard housing and keycap material, but within isolated scenarios, both options will deliver a similarly lively acoustic performance.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black is lauded for its creamy texture, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience akin to gliding fingers over silk. This creamy nature is complemented by silky qualities that reduce resistance with each keystroke, providing a delightful tactile experience ideal for those who favor a more substantial feel of the keyboard. Conversely, the Perky switch is described as polished, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Like the G Pro 3.0 Black, it also boasts a silky sensation, ensuring effortless key travel. While the G Pro 3.0 brings a medium-heavy actuation force to the table, the Perky may provide a different kind of satisfaction due to its condensed travel distance.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Perky linear switches cater to different preferences while remaining aligned in several subjective qualities, particularly in their clacky sound and smooth feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more substantial, medium-heavy typing experience, whereas the Perky focuses on a lighter, polished touch with shorter travel. Ultimately, whether you lean toward the heavier or lighter switch experience, both options will deliver satisfying results, making either choice a worthy addition to your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Perky linear switches ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Black is an excellent choice. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams, complemented by a creamy and silky typing experience, makes it suitable for those who enjoy a more deliberate keystroke, whether you're gaming or typing. However, if you lean towards a lighter touch and a smoother, more condensed typing experience, the HMX Perky switches are likely to resonate better with you. With their 50-gram bottom-out force and polished finish, these switches provide a delightfully smooth typing experience ideal for extended use, perfect for quick typing sessions or gaming where speed is essential. Both switches offer a clacky sound profile that adds to the enjoyment of typing, but the choice ultimately reflects whether you prioritize heft and a substantial feel over a lighter, swifter experience.
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