Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Sunset Gleam offer distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences while both falling under the linear switch category. The G Pro 3.0 Black is a standout for budget-conscious gamers and typists, boasting a hefty 60g actuation force and a satisfying 70g bottom-out force that promotes a substantial feel. Its medium-high pitch auditory feedback and creamy texture make it a versatile choice for both typing and gaming, while the frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects for those who enjoy vibrant aesthetics. Conversely, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a unique blend of materials, delivering a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, enhanced by the factory lube that HMX is renowned for. This can make for a smoother, quieter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more understated auditory profile. Both switches provide compelling reasons for consideration; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Sunset Gleam, notable distinctions emerge, particularly in the properties and sound profiles of their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for delivering a pointed, high-pitched sound that retains a satisfying clackiness. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, crisper sound, resulting from the material's stiffer nature that enhances resonance. Although both housings share a higher-pitched sound characteristic, the G Pro 3.0 Black focuses on an overall sharper sound profile while the Sunset Gleam gives additional clarity, especially beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucent qualities.

Examining the bottom housings, a different story unfolds. The G Pro 3.0 Black is equipped with a POM bottom housing that is recognized for its deeper, muted sound profile, while the HMX Sunset Gleam utilizes a nylon bottom housing known for producing a fuller, fuller sound that absorbs more noise. This fundamental difference in bottom housing materials reflects significantly in the overall acoustic experience. The POM provides a unique soundscape that is pleasantly muted, whereas the nylon offers a rounder sound, making them distinctly different in terms of auditory feedback when keys are bottomed out.

The differing materials in both the top and bottom housings of these switches mean that each design will yield distinct auditory experiences when used. With the G Pro 3.0 Black, the interaction of the high-pitched INK blend top housing and the deeper POM bottom housing creates a unique balance between sharpness and depth. Conversely, the HMX Sunset Gleam blends the clarity and precision of its polycarbonate top with the fullness of its nylon bottom, creating a sound profile that is both bright and resonant. If one were to seek similar results from both switches, a careful selection of keycap materials and sound-dampening accessories could help bridge the sound differences, but ultimately, the distinct characteristics inherent to each switch's housing materials will lead to unique audio and tactile feedback.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Black requires an actuation force of 60 grams and features a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a preferable choice for those who enjoy a softer typing experience. This significant variance means that while the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more substantial feel that may appeal to users seeking a stronger push, the Sunset Gleam is better suited for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, where less effort is required to actuate keys. Therefore, users looking for a lighter typing experience should consider the Sunset Gleam, while those who prefer a heavier feel may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black.

Travel distance

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the G Pro 3.0 Black measuring 4 mm and the Sunset Gleam at 3.5 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a longer key press experience, which some users may find more satisfying and robust, especially those who prefer a deeper feel while typing. On the other hand, the shorter 3.5 mm travel of the Sunset Gleam caters to gamers or users who appreciate quicker responses, as it reduces the distance the key must travel before actuating. Therefore, if you are seeking a faster response time, the Sunset Gleam would be the preferable choice. Conversely, if you enjoy a more traditional and hearty keystroke, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the way to go. Thus, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a longer travel distance, while the Sunset Gleam is shorter, catering to different user preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering the auditory profiles of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Sunset Gleam, the G Pro 3.0 Black presents a unique sound character described as both clacky and subdued. This combination offers a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that is bright and percussive while also allowing for a more dampened sound signature compared to other switches. In contrast, the sound profile of the Sunset Gleam remains unspecified, which leaves its auditory experience as an open question. However, the acoustic properties of any switch can also be significantly influenced by the keyboard it’s mounted on and the type of keycaps used.

In terms of tactile feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black is celebrated for its creamy, silky, and subtle sensations, all of which contribute to a smooth and buttery typing experience. This type of feedback allows users to glide effortlessly from key to key, enhancing overall typing comfort and efficiency. While the feel of the Sunset Gleam is not elaborated upon, the G Pro 3.0 Black’s profile suggests it is particularly friendly for long typing sessions where comfort is paramount.

Considering both switches as a whole, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black stands out with distinctly defined sound and feel qualities, appealing particularly to those who favor a heavier linear experience with an emphasis on smoothness and acoustic feedback. The HMX Sunset Gleam's unknown sound and feel characteristics introduce an element of uncertainty, making it less predictable. Those who value a known, positive typing experience might find themselves gravitating toward the G Pro 3.0 Black, while those open to exploration could wait for additional user feedback on the Sunset Gleam to uncover its potential. Regardless, both switches promise a unique experience that could cater to varying preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Sunset Gleam largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a more substantial and tactile experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black, with its medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams and bottom-out force of 70 grams, is an excellent option. It caters well to those who appreciate the tactile feedback during typing due to its creamy and silky feel, along with a clacky auditory experience that adds character to your keystrokes. This switch is particularly well-suited for people who engage in extensive typing sessions or require a switch that provides a bit more resistance, making it ideal for both gaming and productivity tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter feel with a more subdued sound profile, the HMX Sunset Gleam is likely the better choice for you, thanks to its light bottom-out force of 48 grams. This switch combines smoothness with a subtle tactile feedback, making it a fantastic option for fast-paced typing or gaming, where speed and quick response times are essential. Ultimately, your decision may also be influenced by factors such as the type of environment you'll be using your keyboard in; if you are in a shared space, the muted sound of the Sunset Gleam might be more appealing. In the end, whether you lean towards the defined feel of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the lighter, smooth touch of the Sunset Gleam hinges on how you prioritize typing experience versus auditory feedback.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more