Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it's essential to consider the unique characteristics and benefits of different types to enhance your overall typing or gaming experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch stands out as an excellent option for those seeking a tactile typing experience. With its subtle bump that provides a gentle tactile sensation, it allows users to feel their key presses without overwhelming their flow, making it a great choice for long typing sessions. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to your setup. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch caters to users who prefer a smooth and effortless keystroke, thanks to its meticulous lubrication. This linear switch features an ultra-light actuation force that creates a bouncy and clacky sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback while typing or gaming. Ultimately, your decision may hinge on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a smooth, quick response as you navigate your keyboard. 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
45g
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and HMX Poro switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, resulting in different auditory experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This gives the key switches a more pronounced and resonant sound when keys are released. In contrast, the HMX Poro is equipped with a nylon top housing, which is softer and thus tends to absorb more sound. This results in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. Consequently, if an RGB lighting setup is employed with the G Pro 3.0 Brown, the translucency of its polycarbonate housing allows the light to shine through distinctly, enhancing its visual appeal.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, it becomes apparent that they share a common material—nylon. Both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and HMX Poro incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, which significantly influences the tactile feedback and sound profile during key presses. Because nylon is softer than polycarbonate, both switches offer a rounded and muted sound when the key bottoms out. This means that while the top housing materials create contrasting sound profiles on release, the bottom portion of both switches contributes similarly to a deeper sound landscape when the keys are engaged. This shared characteristic may lead to a more cohesive overall typing experience, should the user wish to mix and match the two switches.
Ultimately, the differing top housing materials of the G Pro 3.0 Brown and HMX Poro switches create unique audio effects, while their identical nylon bottom housings harmonize their key feel and sound upon actuation. The polycarbonate top of the G Pro 3.0 Brown accentuates the sound on key release, generating a bright and clear auditory feedback, whereas the nylon top of the Poro contributes to a warmer sound. Nevertheless, due to their shared bottom housing, both switches may appear more similar when it comes to the sensation felt during typing and the sound produced upon bottoming out. This blend of materials contributes to an enriched typing experience, allowing users to select switches based on aesthetic and auditory preferences while maintaining a consistent bottoming sound.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch with its actuation force of 55 grams and bottom out force of 63 grams to the HMX Poro linear switch, which features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, notable differences in feel and typing experience emerge. The G Pro 3.0 Brown's medium weight may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience, providing a firmer response that can enhance feedback during long typing sessions or intense gaming. Conversely, the HMX Poro's lighter actuation and bottom out forces make it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke, ideal for prolonged use without fatigue. Ultimately, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is heavier, while the HMX Poro is lighter, catering to different preferences in typing style and comfort.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch have different travel distances, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown measuring 4 mm and the Poro at 3.7 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a traditional travel distance, which can provide a satisfying depth for those who appreciate a more tactile response while typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Poro's shorter 3.7 mm travel distance caters to users who prefer quicker actuation, making it a suitable choice for gamers seeking immediate feedback. Ultimately, if you favor a deeper keystroke with more tactile feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be the better option, while the HMX Poro is ideal for those who value speed and responsiveness in their key presses.
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 Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro 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, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch produces a medium-high pitch that offers satisfying auditory feedback during typing. Its acoustics provide a pleasant blend without overwhelming the user, allowing for a quieter typing experience that integrates well in shared spaces. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch is noted for its clacky sound profile, characterized as sharp and snappy, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience with each keystroke. This profile can generate a more lively and engaging ambience during typing or gaming sessions, albeit with a potentially louder output depending on your setup.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown excels with its easy-to-press characteristics, providing a gentle resistance that facilitates a comfortable typing experience. The mild tactile feedback of this switch ensures a versatile experience that caters to a broad audience, standing comfortably between being overly tactile and too smooth. Additionally, the stepped design allows for a discernible pre-travel which can enhance overall typing rhythm. On the other hand, the Poro linear switch offers a bouncy and lively response, alongside a creamy feel that contributes to an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience. This delightful glide is complemented by a feathery touch that minimizes finger fatigue, making it ideal for prolonged use, whether for gaming or extensive typing.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is excellent for those seeking a balanced tactile experience with moderate sound output and ease of typing, making it a great option for both casual and professional environments. Conversely, the HMX Poro stands out for users who prioritize a lively auditory sensation and incredibly smooth keystrokes, perfect for a more dynamic typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on personal preference, as both provide unique qualities that can significantly enhance your mechanical keyboard experience, whether you lean towards a tactile feedback with a soft sound or a smooth, responsive action with a pronounced acoustic presence.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a tactile experience that provides gentle feedback without being overwhelming, and if you're looking for something that balances auditory satisfaction with a reliable feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is an excellent option. It’s particularly well-suited for typing tasks where you want to feel that satisfying bump as you engage each key, making it a great choice for both work and casual use. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother, more fluid keystroke for activities like gaming or fast-paced typing, then the HMX Poro linear switch would be your best bet. Its light actuation force and creamy, bouncy feel not only allow for rapid key presses with minimal effort but also help reduce finger fatigue during extended sessions. Ultimately, consider what aspects are most important to you—tactile feedback versus a smooth, effortless experience—and choose accordingly to enhance your keyboard enjoyment.
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