Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX SU 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 SU stand out as compelling choices for enthusiasts and casual users alike, both offering the smooth, linear feel that typists often prefer. The G Pro 3.0 Black is celebrated for its heftier typing experience, with a 60g actuation and a 70g bottom-out force that deliver a more substantive keypress, making it ideal for users who enjoy a robust tactile response. Its frosted light diffuser also enhances RGB lighting, creating a vibrant atmosphere that adds aesthetic appeal to any setup. In contrast, the HMX SU switch features a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, which contributes to its subtly deep sound profile—perfect for those looking for a less pronounced auditory experience while still maintaining the linear characteristics. Both switches cater to different preferences within the linear switch category, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a heavier, more resonant typing feel, and the HMX SU offering a more muted sound profile. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX SU switches present a contrast in terms of sound profile and characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which is designed to deliver a high-pitched, clacky sound when typing. This unique composition allows for a sharper vocal quality that many enthusiasts appreciate for its distinct auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX SU utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its traditional qualities. The nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more noise due to its softer plastic properties and resulting in a sound that is perceived as duller and rounder compared to the sharper tones of the G Pro 3.0 Black.
When examining the bottom housing, there is a degree of similarity between the two switches. The G Pro 3.0 Black uses a POM bottom housing, which provides a muted and deep sound profile, while the HMX SU also features a nylon bottom housing. Both bottom materials offer a deep and rich sound experience, but the POM's muted characteristics could lend it an edge in terms of providing a more subdued response. The impact of the bottom housing is critical during key bottom-out, where the combination of a more muted bottom material, like POM or nylon, contributes to the overall acoustic experience while typing. Thus, while the top housings differ significantly in sound, the bottoms provide a compatible fullness that can contribute to a similar deep sound experience when bottoming out.
Overall, while the differences in the top housing between the G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX SU lead to distinguishable sound profiles—with the former being sharper and more clacky and the latter deeper and fuller—their similarities in bottom housing materials mean that both switches will deliver a well-rounded typing experience. The interaction between the top and bottom housings creates layers in sound; hence, despite their unique top designs, users may still experience satisfying auditory feedback overall. As such, whether choosing the G Pro 3.0 Black for its pointed sound or the HMX SU for its rounded tones, both switches allow for enjoyable typing experiences thanks to their complementary bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch to the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to varying preferences among users. The G Pro 3.0 Black has 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 SU switch features a significantly lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is well-suited for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. As a result, users who favor lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming would benefit from the SU switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel and a stronger push should opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black. Overall, this contrast highlights the choices available based on personal typing preferences and ergonomic considerations.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch present distinct options when it comes to travel distance, measuring 4 mm and 3.6 mm respectively. The G Pro 3.0 Black features the longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced key press and a deeper typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm caters to those seeking faster response times, making it particularly popular among gamers who benefit from quick actuation. Although both switches have their own merits depending on user preference, the choice between them boils down to a balance between depth and responsiveness; users inclined towards a hearty depth may find the G Pro 3.0 Black more satisfying, while those who favor a snappier feel should gravitate towards the HMX SU.
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 SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 switch produces a medium-high pitch that leans towards a clacky character while also possessing elements of a subdued profile. This combination results in a sharp, crisp auditory experience that can be satisfying for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing sound. The G Pro's sound is characterized by its bright and percussive qualities, which can be enhanced by an appropriate keyboard and keycap choice. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch is noted to have a relatively deep sound profile, which remains uncharacterized in terms of exact descriptors. This might indicate that while the G Pro offers a lively typing sound, the SU could provide a more muted and understated auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black is renowned for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering smooth and buttery feedback that glides effortlessly under your fingers. The switch's balance of 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force contributes to a satisfying resistance without feeling overly cumbersome, appealing to those who prefer a medium-heavy touch. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX SU linear switch remains unknown, so we cannot compare its tactile experience to that of the G Pro. This uncertainty leaves potential users wanting more information about the SU's characteristics, giving the G Pro a clear advantage for now.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch stands out with its engaging sound profile and luxurious feel, the HMX SU linear switch leaves some questions unanswered regarding both its auditory and tactile experiences. Those who prioritize a lively typing sound and smooth keystrokes may find the G Pro 3.0 Black to be a strong choice. However, the lack of detailed information on the SU means that its performance could vary, indicating that a potential buyer might need to experiment or seek additional insights before making a decision.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force and enjoy a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the ideal choice for you. Its creamy and silky feel makes it particularly satisfying for typing and gaming, especially if you lean toward a more tactile sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and more subdued typing experience, the HMX SU switch is the way to go. Its lower 50g actuation force offers a gentle touch that can be perfect for fast typists or those who want a quieter operation in shared spaces. Furthermore, the deep and subtle sound profile of the SU adds an ambient quality to your setup without being overly pronounced. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing habits and whether you value sturdiness or lightness in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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