Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Lucky 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 Lucky stand out as intriguing linear options, each catering to different user preferences. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, a budget-friendly choice from Gateron’s G Pro series, is acclaimed for its smooth typing experience, featuring a medium-light actuation force that balances responsiveness with user-friendliness. This switch also boasts a frosted light diffuser, enhancing RGB lighting effects, while its medium-high pitch adds a satisfying auditory element to the typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switches offer a unique tactile experience with their softer and glittery nylon housings, providing a neutral yet deeply satisfying typing sensation. While the G Pro 3.0 Red is ideal for those seeking a vibrant, budget-conscious option with aesthetically pleasing lighting, the HMX Lucky is perfect for users who desire a lighter feel and an equally enjoyable 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
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Lucky switches, a key distinction arises from their top housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Red employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucence. These attributes allow it to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, particularly beneficial for those who appreciate the clarity that accompanies RGB lighting. In contrast, the HMX Lucky opt for a nylon top housing, which is softer and lowers the sound profile, delivering a deeper, rounder auditory experience. This difference not only affects the overall sound quality but also influences how each switch interacts with user preferences based on the sound signature they seek.
When examining the bottom housing materials, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and HMX Lucky utilize nylon, which provides a cohesive acoustic experience. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material that tends to absorb sound, leading to a fuller and deeper auditory profile when typing. Since both switches share nylon for their bottom housing, this similarity allows users of both models to experience a consistent, well-rounded sound when bottoming out the switches. Thus, even though the top housings differ, the nylon bottoms in each provide a familiar tactile feedback and acoustics when the switches are pressed down.
Overall, the combination of materials influences the overall sound experience in notable ways. While the G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top renders a clear and crisp sound during release, the HMX Lucky’s nylon top softens the auditory profile, creating a more subdued effect. However, both switches maintain a shared acoustic foundation thanks to their nylon bottom housings. This blend of materials contributes to distinct sound profiles that allow users to select a switch according to their typing preferences, underscoring the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, we see distinct differences in their specifications that cater to varying preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter in overall feel. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This indicates that the Lucky switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke, which can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming. Consequently, the G Pro 3.0 Red will provide a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience due to its higher forces, appealing to those who prefer a firmer feedback. Ultimately, if you prioritize a lighter touch for comfort during prolonged use, the HMX Lucky is the better choice, while those who prefer a stronger push may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lucky switch measures at 3.8 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Red the longer option, offering a more traditional feel that many users appreciate for its depth. In contrast, the Lucky switch's shorter 3.8 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Users who prefer the more substantial feel of a keystroke may favor the G Pro 3.0 Red for its deeper travel, while those who enjoy the promptness of shorter distances might lean towards the HMX Lucky. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for either a more pronounced keystroke or a snappier action.
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 Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is characterized as neutral, which means it produces a moderate sound profile that balances well for both beginner and advanced users. Its acoustic characteristics make it versatile enough for home and office settings, ensuring that typing does not disturb those nearby. The HMX Lucky linear switch, however, does not have specific sound qualities documented, so it’s unclear how it compares regarding auditory experience. Including the G Pro 3.0 Red’s balanced sound, there’s potential for similar results if the Lucky has a comparable neutral profile.
When assessing the feel of the two switches, the G Pro 3.0 Red stands out with descriptors such as creamy, mild, polished, and silky. This combination suggests a typing experience that is incredibly smooth, gentle, and refined, likely due to its factory lubrication and quality materials. The typing sensation is one of effortless gliding across the keys, which is appealing for extended use. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switch lacks detailed descriptions of its feel, making it difficult to offer a direct comparison. However, it is touted as offering a neutral and satisfying typing experience, hinting that it may also provide comfort during use, though the specific characteristics remain unverified.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a well-defined sound profile described as neutral and a rich feel encapsulated by smooth and creamy sensations, the HMX Lucky switch’s characteristics remain largely unknown. If sound plays a pivotal role in your tea-practice or environments, you may find the G Pro 3.0 Red to be a safer choice. Although the Lucky offers a neutral typing satisfaction, without further details, it’s challenging to ascertain how it stacks up against the well-rounded performance of the G Pro 3.0 Red. Ultimately, if you prioritize a smooth and pleasant typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides clearer advantages, while the Lucky remains a wildcard that could surprise.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a light yet responsive typing experience coupled with vibrant RGB lighting effects, the G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent choice. Its creamy and polished feel makes it ideal for both casual typing and gaming, providing a smooth and satisfying tactile experience that strikes a good balance for a wide range of users. Conversely, if you prefer an even lighter touch with a more neutral feel, the HMX Lucky switch offers a uniquely soft experience that aims to provide deep satisfaction with every keystroke. The Lucky’s lightweight design is particularly suited for those who prioritize a gentler typing sensation, whether for long typing sessions or a more relaxed gaming experience. Ultimately, assess what qualities matter most to you—whether it’s the added auditory feedback and polished feel of the G Pro 3.0 Red or the softer, understated profile of the HMX Lucky—to find the switch that truly enhances your typing or gaming adventures.
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