Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Macchiato both stand out as excellent options, yet they cater to slightly different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red is recognized for its budget-friendly appeal and is tailored to provide a smooth and responsive typing experience, thanks to its medium-light actuation force and frosted light diffuser that enhances RGB lighting effects. It strikes a balance between user comfort and performance, making it a solid choice for both beginners and seasoned typists alike. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, focuses on delivering a silky smooth typing experience paired with a bright sound profile, which can captivate users who enjoy rich auditory feedback while typing. Both switches are linear, creating a quieter, uninterrupted keypress, but their unique characteristics will resonate differently with users depending on their typing style and aesthetic 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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 housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Macchiato switches present interesting contrasts that influence their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for its rigidity and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a crisper auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato utilizes a nylon top housing that inherently absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The difference in these materials significantly affects the acoustic signature of each switch, catering to varying user preferences regarding sound clarity versus warmth.
When examining the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Macchiato employ nylon, which creates a consistent experience for the bottom-out sound and feel. The use of nylon in both switches provides a sound-absorbing quality, creating a duller and rounder sound profile that users may find appealing for a more muted experience when a key is pressed. Although the two switches diverge in the materials used for the top housing, they share the same nylon bottom housing, ensuring that the fuller sound associated with nylon is present in both cases. This uniformity allows for a degree of acoustic consistency during usage, regardless of the distinct characteristics introduced by the polycarbonate and nylon in the top housing.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Macchiato switches can create different auditory experiences due to their varying top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing establishes a common thread between them. Users can expect a satisfying bottom-out sound from both switches, characterized by nylon's ability to soften and absorb sound. Therefore, even with differing top housings, those who prioritize a warmer sound profile may find that both switches can deliver similar results in terms of their tactile response and overall audio experience, depending on which aspect of the sound profile they value most.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch both offer a light typing experience, although they differ slightly in their actuation forces. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, compared to the Macchiato's lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making the Macchiato the easier switch to press overall and potentially more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that users will experience a similar resistance when pressing the switch all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the HMX Macchiato is the optimal choice; however, the G Pro 3.0 Red still provides a reasonable light touch while delivering a slightly firmer keystroke. Thus, while both switches deliver a lighter typing experience, the Macchiato edges out in terms of actuation force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance of movement from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect very similar tactile feedback and responsiveness when using either switch in your keyboard setup, making them equally suitable for various typing experiences and gaming demands.
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 Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato 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 Red linear switch is characterized by a neutral sound profile, producing a moderate auditory experience that is suitable for various environments, whether you're at home or in a professional setting. This balanced sound output ensures that the switch can cater to both beginners and experienced typists, making it versatile across different uses. The specific sound profile of the HMX Macchiato linear switch remains unknown, but the design suggests that it might emphasize a bright sound profile, providing a distinct auditory experience that complements its intended smoothness, although specifics are not available.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red excels in delivering a creamy typing experience, characterized by smooth and buttery keystrokes. The mild and polished nature of the switch further enhances comfort, ensuring that users enjoy a gentle and refined tactile response that minimizes friction and resistance during typing. This combination leads to an effortless and enjoyable typing experience anchored in a polished finish. The Macchiato, while its tactile qualities are unspecified, is designed for a silky smooth typing experience, implying that it may also focus on providing a seamless and enjoyable experience similar to the G Pro 3.0 Red, albeit with a distinct character of its own.
In summary, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and HMX Macchiato linear switches offer smooth typability, with the G Pro 3.0 Red providing a more detailed description of its sound and feel attributes. While the G Pro 3.0 Red is recognized for its neutral sound and creamy feel, the Macchiato's sound qualities are not specified, but it promises a silky smooth experience. If you're looking for a budget-friendly yet high-performing switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a great choice, whereas the Macchiato may offer a different flavor of smoothness, and both switches likely provide a pleasant typing experience, making your selection dependent on personal preference and the specific characteristics that resonate with you.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch largely depends on your specific preferences and typing environment. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that delivers a smooth, versatile, and creamy typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red will likely be your go-to. It's particularly suited for beginners or those who need a reliable switch for both home and work settings, thanks to its neutral sound profile and modest actuation force of 50 grams. On the other hand, if you prioritize an ultra-smooth experience and a more pronounced auditory profile, the HMX Macchiato might be the better choice for you. Its design caters to enthusiasts who appreciate a silky flow in their typing, making it ideal for gaming or typing at quieter environments where sound clarity is appreciated. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the kind of tactile and auditory feedback you desire from your keyboard—whether that’s an accessible, all-around performance from the G Pro 3.0 Red or a more refined and intricate feel from the Macchiato.
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