Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Twilight linear switches, both options present distinct advantages catering to different user preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black is a heavyweight champion in the G Pro series, appealing to users who desire a more substantial typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, delivering a medium-heavy feel that balances responsiveness and control. It also boasts a medium-high auditory pitch, providing a pleasing sound profile that enhances the typing experience, especially for those who appreciate a bit of feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight switch stands out for its extended 3.85mm travel distance, offering a quieter typing experience while still retaining the signature clacky characteristics that HMX enthusiasts love. Its design ensures a smoother keystroke, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a more understated typing sound. Both switches have unique merits, making the choice slightly dependent on individual preferences for weight and 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
42g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Twilight utilize distinct materials for their housing components, which contribute to their overall sound profile and tactile feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is designed to produce a higher-pitched, clacky sound that many typists find appealing. In contrast, the HMX Twilight's top housing is made of nylon, a classic material that tends to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in top housing materials suggests that while the G Pro 3.0 Black may provide an engaging auditory experience with its sharper sounds, the Twilight leans towards a mellow, rounded acoustic characteristic. Despite these distinctions, if both switches are combined in a keyboard, typers might notice the Gateron's higher-pitched tones contrasting with the Twilight's subdued tones, offering a diverse typing experience.
The bottom housing materials of these switches further highlight their contrasting sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black employs a POM bottom housing, known for generating a pleasing and muted sound, reinforcing the higher-toned profile of the top housing. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight also features a nylon bottom housing, which maintains that deeper, fuller sound consistent with its top housing. This similarity means that while the G Pro 3.0 Black may create sharper auditory cues upon key release due to its top housing, the muted, deeper notes produced at the bottom may share some common ground with the Twilight’s deeper sound. Thus, when considering both switches together, a typist may find some commonalities in depth and resonance but differentiated by a layered complexity due to the unique pairing of materials in the G Pro 3.0 Black.
When utilizing both switches in a keyboard, the differences in how these materials affect the overall typing sound and feel become apparent. For instance, the G Pro 3.0 Black may deliver a crisp, stimulating experience when keys are pressed down, thanks to its POM bottom housing, while the nylon components of the Twilight provide a softer sound on release. Although both switches feature nylon in the top housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black's unique INK blend introduces higher frequencies, making the release sound more pronounced compared to the Twilight. Ultimately, the distinct materials used in each switch ensure that typists will enjoy a varied auditory experience, with a balance of sharper and fuller sound profiles when both switch types are employed in a single keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch with its actuation force of 60 grams and bottom out force of 70 grams to the HMX Twilight linear switch, which features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, notable differences emerge. The G Pro 3.0 Black is distinctly heavier, making it a better choice for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Twilight's lighter actuation and bottom out forces may appeal to those seeking a more effortless typing experience, allowing for extended use without fatigue. Therefore, while the G Pro 3.0 Black is suited for users who appreciate a firmer push, the Twilight is more favorable for individuals who favor a lighter key feel. This variance means that those opting for a keyboard equipped with the Twilight switch may enjoy prolonged typing sessions with less strain, while users of the G Pro switch may appreciate the tactile feedback from its heavier force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch exhibit distinct travel distances, with the G Pro 3.0 Black measuring 4 mm and the Twilight measuring 3.85 mm. This difference of 0.15 mm indicates that the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a longer travel distance compared to the Twilight, making it more suitable for users who prefer a deeper keystroke and a more substantial feel when typing. In contrast, the HMX Twilight, having a shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers or those who favor quick, responsive keystrokes for faster response times. While both switches are linear and provide a smooth keystroke experience, those looking for a more pronounced depth will gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 Black, while users seeking a quicker actuation may lean towards the HMX Twilight.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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
The sound profile of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is characterized by a medium-high pitch that generates a clacky, crisp auditory feedback when pressed. This sharp and snappy sound can add an engaging element to the typing experience but may not be the ideal choice for those requiring a quieter environment. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch, with its extended travel distance of 3.85mm, is designed to produce a slightly quieter sound. Although exact descriptors for the Twilight's sound are not provided, its nature suggests a more subdued auditory presence, possibly retaining some clackiness typical of HMX switches, yet with a more restrained volume.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black excels with its creamy and silky characteristics, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that enhances comfort and precision. The combination of a medium-heavy actuation force (60g) and a responsive feel promises a satisfying tactile experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight has no specific feel descriptors available, leaving its tactile qualities unspecified. However, if it shares the same linear characteristics, it may also deliver a smooth typing experience, albeit potentially lacking the luxurious creamy and silky sensations found in the G Pro 3.0 Black.
In summary, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more lively sound profile with a rich typing feel favored by enthusiasts, the HMX Twilight promises a quieter operation that could suit those seeking peaceful typing experiences. Each switch provides a unique set of features catering to various preferences, yet both aim to enhance overall typing satisfaction. If you're unsure about the Twilight's feel but enjoy the smoothness and consistency of linear switches, you're likely to receive a gratifying typing experience with either option, though the G Pro 3.0 Black's specific attributes offer a clear edge in sound and tactile comfort.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Twilight linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch that provides a more substantial feel with a higher resistance, the G Pro 3.0 Black is an excellent option. It's ideal for users who enjoy a pronounced tactile experience while typing, offering a creamy and silky sensation that enhances overall comfort. This switch's medium-high pitch sound is satisfying and resonates well in both personal and bustling environments, making it great for dedicated gamers or writers who appreciate feedback in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lighter touch with quicker actuation, the HMX Twilight is the better fit. Its 50g bottom-out force and extended travel distance of 3.85mm make it perfect for fast-paced typing or gaming, where efficiency and speed are essential. Additionally, its quieter sound signature allows for more discreet use, making it suitable for shared workspaces or environments where noise might be a concern. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style and the context in which you'll be using the keyboard, allowing you to achieve the best experience tailored to your needs.
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