Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Xinhai offer unique experiences for different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is a tactile switch known for its gentle bump that enhances typing without disrupting flow. It provides a satisfying auditory feedback with medium-high pitch and features an RGB-friendly design for an immersive visual experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai is a linear switch with a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. It offers a more bouncy and clacky typing experience with a creamy feel. While both switches have their strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Xinhai, it is evident that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to utilize RGB lighting. However, despite their similarities in top housing material, it is important to note that other factors such as the design and construction of the switches may result in subtle differences in sound and feel.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Xinhai switches incorporate nylon in their construction. This choice of material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. As nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, it has the ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, the impact of this material may vary depending on the overall design and composition of the switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the HMX Xinhai switches provides a unique sound profile that balances sharpness, crispness, and depth. The differences in sound and feel between the two switches may be subtle yet discernible to experienced users. As such, while the use of similar housing materials may provide comparable results, nuances in design and construction should be considered when choosing between the two switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch differ significantly. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Xinhai offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The difference in forces means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires a heavier push compared to the Xinhai. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Brown ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Xinhai is better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, when comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the heavier option, while the Xinhai is the lighter option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro has a longer travel distance of 4 mm while the Xinhai has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The G Pro's 4.0mm distance is more traditional and provides a deeper keypress feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress. On the other hand, the Xinhai's shorter 3.4mm travel distance is ideal for gamers looking for quicker response times and a more responsive typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the G Pro offering a longer travel distance for a satisfying keypress, while the Xinhai provides a quicker and shallower keypress for rapid typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience each individual user is looking for.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai 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 is known for its medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This creates a crisp, bright, and percussive sound that adds a unique auditory dimension to typing sessions. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard enclosure and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance during key presses, making typing effortless and comfortable. The mild tactile sensation of these switches ensures a low-impact typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch provides a bouncy feel, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that adds a lively dynamic to typing. Additionally, the creamy typing experience of the Xinhai switch, characterized by a smooth and buttery feel, enhances typing comfort and overall typing satisfaction.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch and the HMX Xinhai switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro Brown provides a medium-high pitch sound and an easy-to-press tactile sensation, the Xinhai switch delivers a clacky sound and a bouncy, creamy feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the subtle tactile feedback of the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the crisp, bouncy feel of the Xinhai switch for an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch or the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a gentle tactile bump that won't overpower your typing flow, then the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a switch with a softer acoustics profile and a distinctive crisp sound, then the Xinhai linear switch may be more suitable for your needs. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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