Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are distinct differences in their characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Black by Gateron is renowned for its premium quality construction at an affordable price point, offering a heavier typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out for its unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched sound. While the G Pro 3.0 Black emphasizes a balanced medium-heavy feel, the Xinhai provides a blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best choice for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a relatively high-pitched, yet not overly sharp, sound profile described as clacky. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. While both materials offer a satisfying sound experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend tends to be thinner and higher-pitched, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate delivers a clearer and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black uses POM, resulting in a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Xinhai employs a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound qualities, the POM of the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a deeper tone, while the nylon of the Xinhai provides a fuller and more rounded sound experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Xinhai ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. Both switches offer distinct characteristics in their housing materials, with the G Pro 3.0 Black providing a clacky and deep sound profile thanks to its INK blend and POM housing, while the Xinhai delivers a sharper and fuller sound with its polycarbonate and nylon housing combination. Whether you prefer a crisper sound or a deeper tone, both switches offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In comparison, the HMX Xinhai linear switch requires a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and has a bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Black will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Xinhai will offer a lighter touch ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with some favoring the lighter Xinhai for its ease of use and others opting for the heavier G Pro 3.0 Black for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Xinhai. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the Xinhai provides a slightly more shallow press. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Xinhai with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai 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 Xinhai linear switches are described as "clacky," producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The G Pro 3.0 Black also offers a more subdued sound option for those looking for a quieter typing experience. However, the Xinhai switch stands out with its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem combination, providing a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering smooth and buttery key presses with a medium-heavy feel. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a lively feel when typing. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, but the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a more subtle resistance, while the Xinhai emphasizes a bouncier and more elastic feedback.
Overall, while both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Xinhai linear switches have their unique qualities in sound and feel, they both excel in providing a premium typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a balanced medium-heavy feel with a clacky sound option, while the Xinhai switch delivers a softer acoustics profile with bouncy key presses. Depending on your preference for typing feel and sound signature, you can achieve satisfying results with either of these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a more substantive and medium-heavy feel with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force, as well as a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a lower bottom-out force, along with a softer acoustics profile and a unique POM stem for a crisper, higher-pitched sound, the Xinhai switch could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired sound and feel preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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