Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX KD200 offer distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red is renowned for its smooth actuation and budget-friendly price point, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate a quiet, tactile feel without sacrificing performance. Its medium-light actuation force ensures a responsive experience while allowing for comfortable, prolonged usage. In contrast, the HMX KD200 stands out as the clackiest switch in the HMX Film family, providing a unique auditory experience that some users might find particularly satisfying despite its classification as a linear switch. While both switches cater to linear typing preferences, the G Pro 3.0 Red excels in providing heightened RGB aesthetics and a more polished feel, whereas the KD200 might appeal to those who enjoy a pronounced sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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 Red and the HMX KD200 present interesting contrasts in their choice of top housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and more resonant sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. This contributes to a crisper auditory experience, particularly beneficial for users who appreciate a more tactile feedback during key presses. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it an attractive option for gamers or users who want visually dynamic keyboards. In contrast, the KD200 opts for a nylon top housing, which is recognized for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being softer, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience, a preference for those who favor a more muffled and subdued keyboard noise.
Interestingly, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, leading to similarities in sound characteristics when bottoming out the key. In this case, both switches would deliver a deeper auditory feedback during key presses, as nylon's sound-absorbing qualities create a softer bottom-out sound. This parallel in their bottom housing material emphasizes how the impact of the bottom housing's characteristics can overshadow certain tonal elements of the switches, making them feel less distinct in that dimension. The consistency of nylon across both models for the bottom housing ensures that users can expect a fuller sound when keys are pressed down, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX KD200 differ markedly in their top housing choices—polycarbonate versus nylon—their commonality in bottom housing material provides a unifying sound element during usage. Users can anticipate a compelling and rounded typing experience from either switch, particularly when bottoming out, thanks to the properties of nylon. However, the differing top housing materials mean users will experience varied auditory results upon key release; the G Pro 3.0 Red will deliver a sharper and clearer sound, while the KD200 will resonate with a more rounded and muffled tone. Therefore, the selection between these switches may ultimately come down to user preference regarding the auditory profile and aesthetic appeal of their keyboard.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch both feature an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making their performance regarding these two metrics identical. This similarity means that users can expect the same responsiveness and feedback when typing or gaming on either switch. Since both switches have the same forces, they are considered light, which can be advantageous for those who engage in prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. Users who favor a lighter switch for comfort will find both options suitable, while those who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience may want to explore other switches. In summary, with matching actuation and bottom out forces, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and HMX KD200 switches offer a lightweight touch that caters to long-term use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, we find that the G Pro 3.0 Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KD200 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that pressing down on the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a more pronounced depth, which may appeal to users who prefer a hearty key feel. In contrast, the HMX KD200's 3.5 mm travel distance allows for quicker response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers who seek enhanced responsiveness. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that offers a deeper sensation and more tactile feedback, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red may be the better option, while the HMX KD200 is suited for those who favor a faster keystroke with a less abrupt feel.
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 KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 Red switch has a neutral auditory profile characterized by its moderate actuation force and sound output. This makes it versatile and suitable for a variety of environments, whether you're using it at home or in a work setting. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 boasts a reputation as the clackiest option in the HMX Film switch family. While the specifics of the KD200's sound profile aren't detailed, the emphasis on it being clacky suggests a distinctly louder and more pronounced auditory experience compared to the more subdued G Pro 3.0 Red.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red delivers an exceptionally creamy and smooth typing experience, enhanced by its polished finish. Users can expect a silky sensation as their fingers glide effortlessly across the keys, making it approachable for beginners and enjoyable for expert typists alike. The switch's mild characteristics add to its appeal, offering a gentle and comfortable touch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease. The specific feel of the HMX KD200 switch is not provided, which leaves some ambiguity in this comparison; however, the clackiness may suggest a more tactile experience compared to the smoothness of the G Pro 3.0 Red.
In conclusion, while both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX KD200 are linear switches, they cater to different sensory preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red is ideal for those looking for a neutral sound profile coupled with a creamy and silky typing feel, making it great for general use. Meanwhile, the KD200's clacky nature may attract those seeking more auditory feedback with each keystroke, even if the specifics of its feel remain unknown. If you're considering either switch for your mechanical keyboard, note that your overall experience will also depend on other factors like your keyboard's build and the keycap materials used.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch should largely depend on your specific preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a smooth, creamy, and silky typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent option; it's especially suited for beginners or those using the keyboard in both home and office settings where a discreet sound is preferred. The light actuation force of 50 grams makes it responsive without being overly taxing on your fingers, which can enhance your overall typing experience, particularly during long sessions. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that stands out with a clackier sound profile and perhaps offers a unique auditory feedback, you might gravitate towards the HMX KD200. While it also has a light actuation force, its distinctive sound could cater to users who enjoy the 'clicky' auditory feedback reminiscent of older keyboard designs, and who might place a higher value on sound over the muted nuances of a creamy feel. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preference for tactile feedback, sound, and the environments where you will be using the keyboard.
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