Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear can significantly influence your typing experience, and two notable examples are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Sunset Gleam. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its gentle bump that enhances feedback without disrupting your typing flow, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a nuanced response while maintaining efficiency. With an appealing medium-high pitch sound and a frosted light diffuser for improved RGB lighting, it stands out for both its auditory and visual experiences. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, a linear switch, offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, ideal for gamers and typists who prefer rapid, fluid motion without tactile interruptions and the satisfying clack that comes from its well-crafted design and superior factory lube. While both switches provide distinct advantages—one emphasizing tactile feedback and comfort, the other prioritizing smoothness and speed—it's essential to consider your own typing style and preferences. 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
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
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
When examining the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Sunset Gleam, one can observe that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This commonality results in a distinctive sound profile characterized by a sharp, higher-pitched resonance. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to this clarity and resonance, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts who appreciate a crisp auditory feedback while typing or gaming. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing enhances the aesthetic appeal of both switches when RGB lighting is incorporated, allowing for vibrant light diffusion and a visually striking effect.
Comparatively, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Sunset Gleam adopt nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to a shared auditory experience that differs significantly from their top housings. Nylon, being a softer material, tends to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharpness provided by the polycarbonate top. This combination of materials means that the typing experience is fleshed out: while the top housing generates the clear and resonant sounds, the nylon bottom absorbs some of that energy, creating a more rounded and muted feel when bottoming out. This synergy between the two materials showcases how the design intricacies of each switch can impact overall performance.
Ultimately, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and HMX Sunset Gleam showcase differences in sound texture due to their housing compositions, they share remarkable similarities that contribute to a cohesive typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches ensures a consistent higher-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing imparts depth and warmth to that sound. Therefore, whether one prefers the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the Sunset Gleam, the resulting auditory experience remains commendably similar, delivering a balanced interplay of clarity and fullness that enhances both casual typing and competitive gaming scenarios.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires a slightly stronger push to actuate and resist bottoming out, the Sunset Gleam offers a more effortless typing experience, ideal for longer sessions without fatigue. Thus, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is better suited for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, while the Sunset Gleam caters to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the two exhibit distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and provides a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to those who may prefer quicker actuation for a more responsive experience. This difference indicates that if you choose the G Pro 3.0 Brown, you'll experience a slightly more satisfying tactile depth, while the Sunset Gleam offers a quicker response, making it potentially more appealing for gaming. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the longer option, while the Sunset Gleam is the shorter, providing users with different experiences based on their preferences.
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 Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam 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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch produces a medium-high pitch sound that encapsulates a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. This auditory experience adds a pleasant dimension to the overall interaction with the keyboard. The sound profile is generally characterized as understated and not overly intrusive, which makes it suitable for both casual and professional environments. In contrast, while the precise sound characteristics of the HMX Sunset Gleam are not explicitly detailed, it is known to produce a satisfying clack due to its design and excellent factory lube. Sound quality is subjective and can be influenced by the keyboard build and keycaps used, so users can expect varying results based on their individual setups.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown stands out with its easy-to-press design, requiring minimal force for actuation, thereby ensuring a comfortable and fatigue-free typing experience. This switch offers a mild tactile bump, which means the typing action is approachable and user-friendly, making it ideal for long typing sessions. The characteristics of being stepped suggest that users will experience a distinct lane during key presses, contributing to an engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the details of the HMX Sunset Gleam's feel are currently unknown; however, knowing that it is a linear switch, one can infer that it will offer a smooth keypress without the tactile feedback that the G Pro Brown provides.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a balanced auditory and tactile experience, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and subtlety in their typing sessions. With its mild characteristics and satisfying sound, it stands as a versatile option within the switch landscape. The HMX Sunset Gleam, while less defined in terms of tactile feedback, is expected to deliver a smooth experience characterized by a satisfying acoustic response. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, with the G Pro Brown leaning towards a tactile feel and auditory clarity, while the Sunset Gleam promises a linear and possibly quieter profile. Whichever you choose, the right switch will enhance your typing experience when paired with the right board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To conclude, when selecting between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, your specific typing needs and preferences will guide your choice. If you appreciate a tactile experience that offers a balanced engagement with every keystroke, especially in gaming and typing scenarios where feedback is crucial, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is an excellent pick. Its medium bottom-out force of 63 grams strikes a comfortable balance, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without causing excessive finger fatigue. With its gentle bump, you can enjoy satisfying feedback without it becoming intrusive, making your overall typing experience more enjoyable. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, lighter touch with faster actuation, the HMX Sunset Gleam switches could be your best bet. With a bottom-out force of only 48 grams, these switches provide a more effortless typing experience that can enhance your speed, making them ideal for rapid key presses in both gaming and regular use. Their linear nature eliminates tactile bumps, resulting in fluid typing without disruption, while the satisfying sound ensures that you remain engaged with your keyboard. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what feels most comfortable to you—whether that’s the tactile reassurance of the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the smooth and light touch of the Sunset Gleam.
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