Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two impressive linear options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Sunset Gleam. The G Pro 3.0 Red stands out as a budget-friendly choice that emphasizes a smooth typing experience with its medium-light actuation force, making it an excellent option for both casual and avid typists. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, creating a visually striking setup, while its medium-high pitch offers a pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam combines innovative materials to deliver a subtly captivating top-out and a satisfying clack, accentuated by HMX's renowned factory lube, which enhances overall smoothness and responsiveness. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, the G Pro 3.0 Red leans towards a more accessible and visually appealing experience, whereas the Sunset Gleam focuses on premium craftsmanship and tactile satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
Polycarbonate
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 Sunset Gleam switches share similarities in their housing materials, specifically in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches benefit from the properties of polycarbonate, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This shared characteristic enhances the clarity of keystrokes, making both switches ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing or gaming. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, creating visually appealing setups that can further enhance the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing present in both switches offers a contrasting acoustic profile. While polycarbonate contributes to the brightness in sound, nylon's softer composition results in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This complementarity means that, when the user presses down on either switch, the bottom housing plays a pivotal role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel while allowing for a nuanced blend of auditory feedback. The combination of polycarbonate's clarity from the top and nylon's fullness from the bottom makes these switches particularly versatile, fulfilling the needs of different users depending on their preferences for sound and feel.
In summary, while the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Sunset Gleam share identical housing materials, the interplay of these materials creates a combined performance that can cater to various user preferences. Users can expect a similar sound profile shaped by polycarbonate for sharper keystrokes and nylon for a more rounded bottom-out experience. This consistent combination across both switches ensures that typists and gamers can achieve a harmonious auditory and tactile experience, regardless of which switch they choose within this specific category, illustrating the effectiveness of these materials in switch design.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, both switches are designed to provide a light typing experience, though the G Pro 3.0 Red is slightly heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Red features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sunset Gleam has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Sunset Gleam is easier to press down, making it a better choice for those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a slightly firmer feel, which might appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches share the benefit of being lightweight options, catering to users looking for comfort and ease during prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we see that the G Pro 3.0 Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sunset Gleam has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a deeper keystroke, providing a more substantial feel during typing, which could be preferable for those who enjoy a hearty depth in their key presses. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as the reduction in distance can facilitate faster key actuations. Therefore, if you're looking for a more pronounced keypress, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be the better choice, whereas if you favor rapid performance, the Sunset Gleam's shorter travel distance would likely suit you better.
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 Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam 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 switch offers a neutral profile. This means the auditory feedback is moderate, making it suitable for a range of environments whether you're at home or in a more professional setting. Its middle-of-the-road sound resonates well with those who prefer a less intrusive experience while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch is characterized by a resonant sound, producing a cleaner, sharper sound profile that elevates the typing experience to a more immersive level. This higher-pitched auditory feedback can be particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate a pronounced clicking sound while they type.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red is celebrated for its creamy, mild, and polished characteristics. The creamy sensation allows for a smooth, buttery experience as fingers glide effortlessly across the keys, while the mild quality ensures that the typing feel is approachable and gentle. The polished finish enhances this by minimizing friction and promoting sleek key travel, making it a well-rounded option. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam switch offers a distinctive feel with its polished, bouncy, and silky attributes. The polished aspect ensures a refined touch, akin to G Pro Red, while the bouncy nature provides lively feedback, giving a spring-like sensation with each keystroke. Additionally, the silky smoothness enhances the overall typing experience, further minimizing resistance during use.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches offer unique advantages for typists. While the G Pro Red excels in providing a neutral sound for quieter settings, the Sunset Gleam delivers a sharper, more resonant auditory experience. Regarding feel, both switches are polished and smooth, but each brings distinct attributes—creamy and mild from Gateron and bouncy and silky from HMX. For newcomers, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference regarding sound and the specific typing experience they desire, but either option is sure to deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you seek a budget-friendly option that provides a smooth, creamy typing experience with a more neutral sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent choice. Its balanced actuation force of 50 grams is ideal for long typing sessions, making it suitable for both gaming and everyday tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a more resonant auditory experience and a lively, bouncy feel when typing, the Sunset Gleam is the way to go. With its silky, polished action and slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams, it’s particularly appealing for users who enjoy a more immersive and tactile feedback in their keypresses. In essence, if you prioritize lightness and budget, go for the G Pro 3.0 Red; if you lean towards an enhanced auditory and tactile experience, the HMX Sunset Gleam will likely be your best bet.
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