Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Hibiscus stand out as popular linear options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red, with its medium-light actuation force, provides a balanced typing experience that is both responsive and user-friendly, making it an ideal choice for gamers and typists alike who are looking for performance without a hefty price tag. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to your setup. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus switches boast an ultra-light actuation force, ideal for those who prioritize an effortless typing feel. The Hibiscus also offers a delightful clacky sound signature, appealing to users who enjoy auditory feedback when typing. While both switches are linear and provide smooth keypresses, the G Pro 3.0 Red emphasizes a balanced performance for general use, while the HMX Hibiscus focuses on a lightweight touch and engaging sound experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
T3
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Hibiscus switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which fundamentally influences their auditory characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its stiffness and translucency. This particular quality contributes to a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile, making it especially desirable for users who favor clarity and sharpness in their typing experience. Conversely, the HMX Hibiscus employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively. As a result, typing on the Hibiscus yields a deeper, fuller sound, creating a more subdued auditory experience. Therefore, while the G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate housing provides brightness, the Hibiscus offers a rounded sound, creating a significant contrast in their auditory profiles.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which harmonizes their sound characteristics to some extent. The nylon material is known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a duller yet fuller typing experience. In this case, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Hibiscus share a similarity in their bottom housing performance, leading to a consistent bottom-out sound and feel that complements the overall typing experience. Since the qualities of the bottom housing impact how the switch feels when fully pressed, both models will provide a similar tactile sensation despite their differing top housings. This commonality in their lower construction ensures that they maintain a certain level of auditory richness, regardless of the distinct tonal differences created by the variations in their top housings.
When considering the overall typing experience, the contrasting materials in the top housings of these switches create unique auditory identities, but their foundational similarities lie in their bottom housings. The G Pro 3.0 Red with its clamorous and bright sound when releasing keys, complements the Hibiscus, which provides a warmer and more rounded sound profile. However, since both models feature nylon as their bottom housing material, the resulting tactile feedback during key presses remains harmonized. Thus, while users might prefer one switch over the other based on their sound preferences, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Hibiscus ensure a fulfilling typing experience bridged by the consistency of their nylon bottoms, showcasing how differing top housing materials can yield unique outcomes without sacrificing underlying tactile performance.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, both can be classified as light options, but they do differ slightly in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Hibiscus features a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Hibiscus switch is the lighter option overall, making it potentially better suited for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red's slightly heavier forces might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. Both switches, being in the light category, will provide a relatively similar typing experience, but users looking for that more tactile push should consider the G Pro 3.0 Red for its higher force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, a clear distinction emerges, with the G Pro 3.0 Red measuring at 4 mm and the Hibiscus at a shorter 3.5 mm. This indicates that the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a more traditional travel distance, which some users might prefer for its depth and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Hibiscus, with its 3.5 mm travel distance, caters to those seeking a more responsive feel—an aspect particularly favored by gamers for quicker actuation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value the hearty depth of the G Pro 3.0 Red or the brisk response of the Hibiscus; the shorter Hibiscus may feel more abrupt to some, while the longer travel of the G Pro 3.0 Red may provide a more satisfying keystroke experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red for $2.77.
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus 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 Red switch has a moderate auditory profile that can be classified as neutral, providing a balanced sound suitable for various settings, whether at home or in an office. This makes it versatile, as it won’t be overly distracting to others around you. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus switch is known for its unique sound signature, which is satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy. While the Hibiscus offers a more distinct auditory character that stands out, it is also important to note that the overall sound experience can be influenced by additional factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red is celebrated for its creamy, mild, polished, and silky characteristics. Users can expect a smoother and more refined typing experience that allows fingers to glide effortlessly from key to key. This switch is particularly approachable for users seeking comfort without aggressive tactile feedback. On the other hand, details about the feel of the HMX Hibiscus switch are unknown, making it difficult to compare directly. However, the distinct sound signature may suggest a unique and engaging experience that can cater to certain preferences.
When considering both switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red offers a reliable and smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile, appealing to those seeking versatility and comfort. The HMX Hibiscus, with its unique auditory qualities, may attract users looking for a more pronounced acoustic experience, despite lacking detailed information about its tactile feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on personal preferences for sound and the subtleties of the typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Hibiscus linear switches ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth and creamy typing experience, coupled with a neutral sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the right fit for you. This switch's balanced actuation force makes it versatile for both everyday typing tasks and gaming, making it suitable whether you're at home or in an office environment. On the other hand, if you seek a more specialized experience characterized by an ultra-light actuation force and a unique auditory feedback that is clacky and poppy, the HMX Hibiscus could be more appealing. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a distinct sound signature and prioritize smoothness above all else, making it an excellent choice for creative professionals or heavy typists looking for an indulgent typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal typing style and the environments in which you plan to use your keyboard.
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