Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Poro stand out as competitive linear options that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch is celebrated for its budget-friendly design that delivers a smooth typing experience, balanced with a medium-light actuation force. This makes it an excellent choice for users who seek responsiveness without sacrificing comfort, especially appealing to those who enjoy vibrant RGB lighting due to its frosted light diffuser. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch offers an ultra-light actuation force and meticulously lubricated keystrokes, promoting a silky-smooth typing experience that feels almost effortless. With its poppy and clacky sound profile, it's perfect for gamers or typists who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. While both switches deliver a satisfying typing performance, their distinct characteristics may suit different user needs and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your requirements.
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
3.70 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Poro switches, we see a notable distinction in the choice of material for their respective top housings. The G Pro 3.0 Red features a top housing made of polycarbonate, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This not only contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile but also enhances the aesthetic appeal when RGB lighting is employed, allowing the light to pass through the housing effectively. In contrast, the HMX Poro utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic material that results in a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Thus, while the G Pro 3.0 Red is likely to produce a crisper sound when key releases occur, the Poro's nylon top housing would lead to a more subdued sound experience.
On the other hand, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Poro share the same material for their bottom housings, which is nylon. This commonality means that both switches will deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile during key presses, as nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The soft nature of nylon allows for a more rounded sound when the key bottoming out occurs, leading to a consistent tactile feel in both switches when pressed down. Therefore, while users may notice differences in sound quality and aesthetic representation based on the top housing material, the shared nylon bottom housing will contribute to a similar auditory experience during key actions.
Overall, the disparities in the top housing materials of the G Pro 3.0 Red and HMX Poro demonstrate how different plastics can shape the sound and feel of keyboard switches. The polycarbonate top of the G Pro 3.0 Red accentuates a high-pitched auditory response, especially effective in RGB settings, while the nylon top of the Poro delivers a more rounded sound experience. However, due to both switches incorporating nylon in their bottom housings, users can expect a comparable deep and rich sound profile when pressing the keys, regardless of the differences in their top housings. Thus, while the switches offer distinctive characteristics based on their top housing materials, the overall typing experience can still maintain a level of familiarity due to the common properties of their bottom housings.
Weight
The actuation forces and bottom-out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch are identical, with both switches requiring 45 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out. This similarity means that users will experience comparable key press responses and feedback from both switches, offering a relatively light typing experience. Consequently, those who prefer lighter switches for longer, fatigue-free typing or extended gaming sessions will find both options suitable. With both switches being equal in terms of actuation and bottom-out force, the choice between them may come down to other factors such as feel, sound, or brand preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Poro measures at 3.7 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm might seem minimal, but it can significantly impact typing experience. The longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Red aligns with traditional preferences for a more pronounced feel, which many users may find appealing for a more tactile response. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the HMX Poro aligns with modern trends that favor rapid actuation, making it a suitable choice for gamers looking for quick responses. Ultimately, if you lean towards a more responsive feel, the Poro's shorter travel distance may better suit your needs, whereas those appreciating deeper key presses might prefer the G Pro 3.0 Red.
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 Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro 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 comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Poro linear switch, the G Pro 3.0 Red is characterized by a neutral sound profile. This means it delivers a moderate auditory experience that can accommodate various typing environments, making it suitable for both casual and professional settings. The sound is not overly loud or soft, striking a balance that can be appreciated by beginners and seasoned users alike. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Poro switch remains unspecified, leaving an unknown for potential users considering the acoustic feedback of their typing experience.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red excels with descriptions that highlight its creamy, mild, polished, and silky characteristics. This indicates that users will enjoy a smooth and refined typing experience, aided by factory lubrication and quality materials that minimize friction. The sensation is buttery and effortless, allowing fingers to glide seamlessly across the switches with reduced resistance. In contrast, the feel of the HMX Poro linear switch is not clearly outlined, leaving a gap in understanding how it might perform in comparison to the G Pro 3.0 Red in terms of tactile feedback and typing comfort.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red offers a well-rounded auditory experience and exceptional smoothness in feel, the HMX Poro linear switch remains less defined in these aspects. If sound is a critical factor for you, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a dependable option, while the Poro's unspecified characteristics may require further exploration. Overall, users seeking a buttery typing experience will likely find solace in the G Pro 3.0 Red, while the Poro may offer its own unique tactile experience waiting to be discovered.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Poro linear switches, consider your personal preferences and typing habits. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that provides a balanced and smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent choice. Its creamy feel and mild characteristics make it accessible for both beginners and experienced typists, ensuring that it suits a variety of environments, whether at home or in the office. On the other hand, if you prioritize an ultra-smooth keystroke with a satisfyingly poppy sound, the HMX Poro switch may be the way to go. These meticulously lubricated switches excel in offering an effortless glide, making them ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming where seamless key presses are essential. Ultimately, your decision should align with how you intend to use your keyboard and what tactile and acoustic characteristics you prefer while typing.
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