Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch can significantly impact your typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Brown excels in providing a gentle tactile feedback that strikes the perfect balance for users looking for a satisfying yet unobtrusive typing sensation. Its budget-friendly design caters to both casual users and gamers, while the frosted light diffuser enhances the RGB lighting for a visually appealing setup. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato offers a smooth, unbroken keystroke ideal for those who prioritize fluidity and speed in their typing. By eliminating the tactile bump, the Macchiato allows for faster actuation and a cleaner sound profile, appealing to gamers and typists who favor a seamless experience. Both switches offer unique benefits tailored to different preferences and styles of use; 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
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Macchiato exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influences their overall sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Brown employs a polycarbonate top housing that is known for its stiffness and translucency. This material lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato features a nylon top housing, which is more traditional in the keyboard switch world. Nylon's softer characteristics create a deeper and fuller sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience. Thus, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown may offer a more vibrant and clear sound due to its polycarbonate casing, the Macchiato provides a warmer, richer sound profile attributed to its nylon housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches are consistent in their use of nylon, leading to a shared acoustic signature beneath the key. As both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Macchiato utilize nylon for their bottom housing, they share a deeper sound profile that emphasizes a smoother, rounder auditory experience when the key is bottomed out. The impact that the nylon bottom housing has on the overall sound is especially pronounced during the actuation of the key, where it absorbs vibrations and creates a cohesive sound regardless of the differences in the top housing material. Thus, while the top housings diverge in characteristics, their identical bottom housings unify their performance in this aspect.
Ultimately, the combined effects of different top and bottom materials dictate the user experience of these switches. For the G Pro 3.0 Brown, the polycarbonate top housing contributes a crisp and clear sound when releasing the key, while the nylon bottom rounds out the sound when the key is fully pressed down. On the other hand, the Macchiato's nylon top creates a more subdued sound upon release, in alignment with the bottom housing’s characteristics. Therefore, despite the distinct materials used in their upper sections, both switches can produce similarly rich auditory results overall, particularly due to their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing. This combination highlights how housing materials can create varied but complementary effects, influencing not only sound but also the tactile feedback experienced by the user.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, there are clear distinctions in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Brown features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, classifying it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions or extensive gaming. Thus, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the heavier of the two, while the Macchiato is the lighter option. With the G Pro's higher actuation and bottom out forces, users will experience a more substantial typing feel, which is favored by those who enjoy a firmer keystroke response. In terms of performance, if a user is looking for a more delicate typing experience, the Macchiato would be the better choice, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Brown would appeal to those seeking a heavier push feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. Since they share this same measurement, users can expect a similar feel when pressing down on the keys, resulting in comparable tactile feedback and overall typing experience. With both switches exhibiting an equal travel distance, preferences may instead hinge on other factors, such as their tactile characteristics or actuation force.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown 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 Brown for $2.77.
The HMX Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato 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
In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch produces a medium-high pitch sound that offers a satisfying auditory feedback, making it enjoyable for users who appreciate a bit of music in their typing rhythm. This pleasing sound profile is balanced enough not to be disruptive in shared spaces, allowing for immersive typing sessions without being overly loud. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato switch is characterized by its bright sound profile, which may appeal to those who prefer a crisper auditory experience. Both switches can deliver satisfying acoustics, though the specific traits of each may differ, and the final sound will also depend on the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is noted for its easy-to-press mechanism, delivering a gentle resistance that makes typing feel smooth and valid. This feature is complemented by a mild tactile sensation that allows for comfortable typing without overwhelming finger fatigue, particularly during prolonged use. The stepped tactile design provides some pre-travel and post-travel feedback, making it an approachable choice for a broad range of users. The HMX Macchiato switch, while not detailed in its specific feel characteristics, is designed to offer a silky smooth typing experience. If it shares similarities with G Pro 3.0 Brown, they might also provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, while both switches offer unique qualities, the G Pro 3.0 Brown stands out with its balanced sound and mild tactile feel, which caters to those who prefer a more subdued experience. The HMX Macchiato, with its bright sound profile and potential for a smooth typing feel, may attract users looking for a different auditory and tactile experience. Ultimately, both switches aim to enhance the typing journey, and personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch feels more suited to individual tastes. If you find common ground in specific qualities, you can expect similar results in terms of typing enjoyment, creating a satisfying experience regardless of the choice between the two.
Conclusion
To summarize, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Macchiato linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you appreciate a tactile feedback with each keystroke that can enhance your typing accuracy and provide a satisfying experience, you should lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Brown. Its medium bottom-out force of 63 grams strikes a balance that many find ideal for extended typing sessions, and the mild tactility can help reduce fatigue while remaining comfortable during long use. This switch is particularly beneficial if you enjoy the auditory feedback that accompanies each press, making it a great option for both typing and gaming in a moderately immersive RGB-lit environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, linear experience without any tactile bump, then the HMX Macchiato should be your go-to. With its lighter 50-gram force, it allows for effortless, rapid key presses, which is excellent for gaming and fast-paced typing. The silky smoothness and bright sound of the Macchiato make it a delightful choice for users who prioritize speed and fluidity. In the end, your decision will align with your typing style and the sensory feedback you seek, whether that be the tactile sensation of the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the smoothness of the Macchiato.
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