Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear options can significantly influence your typing experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch stands out as a popular tactile switch, offering a gentle bump that enhances feedback without disrupting the rhythm of your typing. This switch is not only economically designed but also features a frosted light diffuser to amplify RGB lighting, making it a great choice for those who appreciate an immersive visual experience while typing. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch presents a linear option with a focus on a smooth and condensed typing experience; its softer nylon housing promotes a quiet and neutral response, while the shorter travel distance results in quicker key presses. Both switches cater to different preferences: the G Pro Brown for typists who enjoy tactile feedback and a little auditory delight, and the Perky for users seeking a fluid and uninterrupted flow. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch to the HMX Perky switch, a notable difference arises from the choice of materials used for their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 employs a polycarbonate top housing that is designed to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a crisper auditory experience, enhancing the clarity and resonance of each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Perky utilizes a nylon top housing, which delivers a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer nature. This softer material is adept at absorbing sound, resulting in a more muted and rounder acoustic signature. Thus, while both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, they do so through distinctly different sound philosophies.
On the other hand, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Perky share the same material for their bottom housings, which is nylon. This consistency suggests a common tactile experience in terms of sound resonance and feel when bottoming out the keys. Nylon’s properties contribute to a fuller sound profile, enriching the feedback customers receive during typing. Therefore, despite the disparity in their top housings, the G Pro 3.0 and Perky switches will likely provide similar results in this aspect, as both benefit from the sound-dampening qualities of nylon in their bottom components. When pressed, users will experience a cohesive auditory foundation, ensuring that the bottoming-out experience remains harmonious across both models.
Ultimately, the contrasting choices in materials for the top housings lead to differing acoustic characteristics between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Perky switches. The polycarbonate top of the G Pro 3.0 enhances clarity and brightness in sound, catering to those who prefer a more pronounced keypress response. Conversely, HMX Perky’s nylon top offers a warmer and more subdued auditory feel, appealing to typists looking for comfort over sharpness. The shared nylon bottom housing harmonizes their overall sound profiling upon key press, but the experience remains uniquely tailored by the distinct top materials. Thus, users must consider their sound preference and typing style when making a choice between the two.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch to the HMX Perky linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Brown requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the HMX Perky boasts a much lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. This disparity in weight can impact user experience significantly; those who prefer a lighter switch like the Perky may find it easier to type for extended periods without fatigue, whereas users who opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown might appreciate the more substantial feel and feedback it provides, making each keystroke a bit more pronounced. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the heavier option, while the HMX Perky offers a lighter touch, catering to different preferences in typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch differ significantly in their travel distances, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown featuring a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Perky linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Brown aligns with traditional preferences, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users find appealing for typing and gaming. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the HMX Perky caters to the growing trend among gamers who favor quicker actuation for faster response times, although some may find it too abrupt. Ultimately, if you prioritize a more responsive feel, the HMX Perky would be the better choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown is suited for those who appreciate a more substantial key press.
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 Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches produce a medium-high pitch auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience without being overly loud, allowing for an enjoyable and satisfying sound profile. This makes them well-suited for environments where a quieter operation is preferred, yet they still provide enough auditory feedback to confirm each key actuation. The HMX Perky linear switches, on the other hand, are likely more subdued in their auditory characteristics due to their linear nature, which typically results in a quieter typing experience. However, because the specific sound profile of the Perky switch hasn't been detailed, it remains uncertain how it contrasts directly with the sound of the G Pro 3.0 Brown. Sound perception can also vary significantly depending on the keyboard build and choice of keycaps, which means that users may experience a range of auditory feedback regardless of the switch.
Regarding feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switches are characterized by an easy-to-press sensation, requiring minimal force for actuation. This gentle resistance leads to a comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue, especially during extended use. The tactile bump is mild, making these switches approachable for most users, and the stepped design provides a clear distinction in the keystroke, enhancing feedback while remaining non-intrusive. Conversely, the specifics of the feel for the HMX Perky switch aren’t provided. However, given their emphasis on a "neutral and deeply satisfying" typing experience, they likely offer a smooth and consistent keypress without the tactile bump characteristic of the Brown switches, which could appeal to users seeking a more fluid typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches deliver a pleasant auditory experience and a mild tactile feedback that caters to a broad range of preferences, the HMX Perky linear switches present an undefined but potentially softer sound experience and a different tactile feel that leans towards a smoother actuation. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfactory results, but they cater to slightly different typing preferences; the G Pro 3.0 Brown for those who appreciate tactile feedback within a balanced auditory realm, and the Perky for users who may favor a more linear approach. Deciding between these switches will largely depend on whether one prioritizes a tactile sensation or a linear, streamlined feel in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy the sensation of tactile feedback while typing and prefer a medium bottom-out force that offers a satisfying resistance, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is an excellent choice. It provides a delightful tactile bump that enhances your typing experience without being overly pronounced, making it ideal for a balanced everyday use – especially if you appreciate a bit of auditory feedback as well. On the other hand, if you seek a lighter, smoother typing experience with a soft actuation, the HMX Perky linear switch is the way to go. Its light 50-gram bottom-out force and shorter travel distance make it perfect for fast-paced typing or gaming, where you want to minimize finger fatigue and maximize speed. Each switch has its unique characteristics, so consider what aspects matter most to you: tactile sensation and feedback or a smooth, effortless keystroke.
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