Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, understanding the nuances between different types can significantly enhance your typing experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch, known for its subtle tactile feedback, strikes a balance between an enjoyable typing flow and quality at an economical price point. With a gentle bump to signal each key press and a pleasing medium-high pitch auditory feedback, this switch caters to those who appreciate a tactile sensation without overwhelming their rhythm. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offers a different appeal, designed for those who prefer a linear switch that promises a whisper-quiet experience. With an ultra-light actuation force, it is ideal for light typists who favor a noiseless environment reminiscent of gentle raindrops, making it an excellent choice for shared spaces. Both switches have their unique strengths, catering to different preferences and typing styles; 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
37g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g feature distinctly different housing materials that influence their sound profiles and overall typing experiences. The G Pro 3.0 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp, high-pitched sound and crisper auditory feedback. This stiff plastic maintains a clearer resonance compared to softer materials and is particularly advantageous when paired with RGB lighting, as its translucence allows for vibrant illumination. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g employs a nylon top housing, known for absorbing sound and producing a deeper, fuller profile. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a rounder acoustic signature, making it ideal for users seeking a quieter, more subdued typing experience.
Looking at the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown opts for a nylon material similar to the Silent Sakura's top housing. This choice means that both switches will exhibit deeper sound profiles due to the properties of nylon in their bottom sections. Meanwhile, the Silent Sakura's bottom housing is polycarbonate, leading to a sharper sound profile that typically accompanies the bottom-out impact. Here, the different materials mean users of the Silent Sakura can expect a crisper bottom-out sound compared to the G Pro 3.0, where the softer nylon will contribute to a more muted experience.
In terms of overall performance, the two switches provide a unique combination of traits based on their housing material configurations. Given that the G Pro 3.0 Brown employs nylon for its bottom housing, it will resonate with a fuller sound but also possess a partially crisper sound profile due to the polycarbonate top. This results in a balanced approach suitable for users valuing both auditory feedback and dampened noise levels. Conversely, the Silent Sakura's distinct combination of nylon and polycarbonate offers a deeper, nuanced sound while leveraging the crispness during key presses. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between these two switches suggest that the sound profile will vary, leading to distinct typing experiences, with the nature of material contrasting in how they absorb or project sound.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces become evident. 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 better choice for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offers a much lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, catering to those who favor a softer touch, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. Thus, for users seeking lighter switches for comfort, the Silent Sakura would be more suitable, while those who enjoy a stronger push should opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the heavier option, while the Silent Sakura is lighter, highlighting the importance of personal preference in selecting a switch based on force characteristics.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that whether you're using the tactile feedback of the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the smooth actuation of the Silent Sakura, you'll experience the same keypress depth. As a result, you'll achieve similar typing results in terms of the distance your fingers need to travel, making either switch a suitable choice if you prefer a consistent key travel experience.
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 Silent Sakura - 43g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Sakura - 43g 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 auditory feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience with a satisfying sound that brings joy to the mechanical keyboard enthusiast. Its capacitive sound profile lends itself well to an engaging typing atmosphere, particularly when combined with the profusion of RGB lighting provided by its frosted light diffuser. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g emphasizes a near-silent operation, designed to replicate the soothing effect of raindrops tapping against a window. This whisper-quiet performance is particularly beneficial for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. While sound may vary depending on the keyboard and keycaps used, these two switches clearly represent two distinct auditory philosophies.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown boasts characteristics that make it both easy to press and mildly tactile. It gently resists key presses without overwhelming the typist, granting a responsive and comfortable experience that ensures minimal finger fatigue, even during extended sessions. Its stepped tactile design provides a subtle bump that is noticeable but not obtrusive, striking a balance that is approachable for most users. Conversely, the feel of the Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch is of a smooth, light actuation with an ultra-light bottom-out force of 43g, allowing typists to glide effortlessly across the keycaps. While the G Pro Brown employs a tactile bump, the Silent Sakura offers a streamlined experience devoid of tactile feedback, appealing to those who prefer a more fluid keystroke.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offer distinct sensory experiences that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown excels in providing a comforting tactile feedback alongside its melodious sound, making it a great option for those seeking a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura presents an ultra-light, nearly silent experience, prioritizing a serene typing environment devoid of auditory distractions. Ultimately, your choice will reflect your personal typing style and the atmosphere you wish to create while using your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are someone who enjoys a tactile response while typing—where you can feel a gentle bump underneath your fingers without it being too pronounced—the G Pro 3.0 Brown is an excellent option. Its medium bottom-out force of 63 grams balances tactile feedback with comfortable typing, making it suitable for both moderate and heavy typists. This switch also offers a satisfying auditory click, perfect for when you enjoy the sound that accompanies your keystrokes, even if it's not overly loud. Conversely, if you prefer a quieter, more serene typing experience—perhaps due to a shared workspace or a penchant for minimal noise—the HMX Silent Sakura with its ultra-light 43-gram bottom-out force is ideal for you. This switch will allow you to type with a feather-like touch, delivering an effortlessly smooth keystroke that minimizes finger fatigue, making it perfect for long typing sessions where discretion is key. In summary, choose the G Pro 3.0 Brown for an enjoyable tactile sensation and satisfying auditory feedback; go for the Silent Sakura if you prioritize lightness and sound-dampened serenity.
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