Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g stand out as distinct options catering to different user preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red, a member of Gateron's G Pro line-up, is celebrated for its budget-friendly nature and smooth keystrokes, making it ideal for those seeking a responsive yet easy-to-use typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force and a frosted light diffuser enhancing RGB lighting, it delivers not only a tactile satisfaction but also a visually appealing setup. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is crafted for quietude, featuring an ultra-light bottom-out force designed for users who prioritize discretion in their typing environment. This switch mimics the delicate sound of raindrops, thus offering a serene typing experience for light typists. Both switches present compelling reasons to consider them, whether you're looking for performance with the G Pro 3.0 Red or a peaceful atmosphere with the Silent Sakura. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

HMX Silent Sakura - 43g Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches, it becomes evident that both switches leverage different materials for their top and bottom housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. The G Pro 3.0 Red boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which typically creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. This material not only contributes to a clearer and more resonant auditory experience but is also advantageous for RGB lighting setups, given its translucency. In contrast, the Silent Sakura employs a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's ability to absorb sound more effectively, leading to a warmer and rounder auditory experience.

Examining the bottom housings reveals an intriguing switch in materials that further accentuates their differing properties. The G Pro 3.0 Red incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which echoes the classic characteristics of nylon, reinforcing the deeper sound profile typically associated with softer plastics. Conversely, the Silent Sakura features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a crisper sound profile akin to that of its top housing. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the switch's bottom-out sound and feel, this pairing of materials in the Silent Sakura is likely to enhance its sharper auditory qualities, while the G Pro 3.0 Red’s nylon bottom will support a more rounded sound.

In conclusion, while both switches utilize a combination of polycarbonate and nylon, the differing pairings create varied sound profiles that represent their unique character. The G Pro 3.0 Red achieves a balance of crispness and warmth with a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, allowing for a nuanced auditory experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura's nylon top and polycarbonate bottom culminate in a sound profile that is both deep and resonant yet carries sharper undertones, creating a distinctive typing experience. Overall, while the switches may produce aesthetically different results, the contrasting housing materials contribute significantly to their sound and feel, making for a compelling decision based on user preference.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the heavier option. In contrast, the Silent Sakura switch features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is lighter. This makes the Silent Sakura more suitable for extended typing sessions, as its lighter force allows for reduced fatigue. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 may appeal more to those who prefer a firmer feel when typing or gaming. Overall, if users seek a softer touch and easier keystrokes, the Silent Sakura is the better choice, while those desiring a more substantial push experience might favor the G Pro 3.0 Red.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys of either switch, users will experience the same distance, resulting in a similar feel and response during typing or gaming. Since both switches offer the same travel distance, users can expect a uniform key press experience, regardless of which switch they choose.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch delivers a neutral audio signature, characterized by a moderate sound profile that balances well for both casual and professional environments. This means whether you’re typing at home or in an office, the sound is unobtrusive yet satisfying. In contrast, the Silent Sakura offers a unique whisper-quiet experience that evokes the gentleness of raindrops, making it an excellent choice for those who require a serene typing atmosphere. While the G Pro 3.0 Red is more versatile, the Silent Sakura specifically caters to environments where noise control is paramount.

In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red shines with descriptors like creamy, mild, polished, and silky. This means you can expect a buttery smooth typing experience that feels refined and effortless, allowing you to glide across the keys. The sensation is complemented by a gentle actuation force, making it approachable for typists of all skill levels. On the other hand, while the feel of the Silent Sakura is not detailed, it’s designed to support light typists, suggesting that it offers pleasant tactile resistance without the abruptness of heavier switches.

When considering both switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a fantastic option for those seeking a smooth, balanced, and moderately quiet experience, ideal for a wide range of typing situations. The Silent Sakura, however, stands out for its emphasis on a quiet, serene environment, making it perfect for minimalist setups or shared spaces. Ultimately, the choice between the two will hinge on your specific desires for sound and feel, allowing you to tailor your mechanical keyboard experience accordingly.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you appreciate a creamy and smooth typing feel combined with a moderate actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent choice for a balanced experience that suits a variety of tasks, whether typing for work or gaming. Its vibrant RGB lighting compatibility also makes it an appealing option for aesthetic-minded users. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience and a lighter key press, the Silent Sakura - 43g will serve you well; its subtle, serene sound makes it ideal for shared or quiet spaces, ensuring you can type away without disturbing others. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you value a more tactile and responsive feel or a whisper-quiet operation, allowing you to create a comfortable typing environment that fits your unique needs.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more

HMX Silent Sakura - 43g Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more