Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Gravel stand out as two popular linear options, each catering to different preferences and gaming styles. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is celebrated for its fast actuation and shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, making it ideal for competitive gamers seeking rapid response times to seize imperceptible advantages in gameplay. Its vibrant RGB lighting, augmented by a frosted diffuser, not only enhances aesthetics but also adds to the overall gaming experience with its medium-high pitch sound profile that can be both engaging and immersive. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel offers a supremely smooth typing experience, with a medium-light actuation force that provides effortless key presses, making it a great choice for writers and everyday users who prioritize comfort during long typing sessions. While both switches excel in their respective realms—intense gaming versus effortless typing—they offer unique characteristics that can significantly influence your 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Gravel, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which yields a distinctly sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, known for its sturdiness and translucence, contributes significantly to the overall auditory experience when typing. In both switches, this material facilitates a clear and resonant sound, making them particularly appealing for users looking to enhance their keyboard experience with RGB lighting. The aesthetic advantage of polycarbonate is evident, as it allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through, improving not just the performance but also the visual aspect of the keyboards.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches is made of nylon, which serves a contrasting purpose in terms of sound profile. While polycarbonate offers a bright and sharp upper sound characteristic, nylon's softer nature absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This balance between the two materials is crucial; it is particularly notable that the bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing affects the release sound. Thus, the choice of nylon in both switches cleverly complements the polycarbonate top, giving a harmonious auditory experience when both elements are combined.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Gravel hint at how these switches can produce comparable sound profiles. By leveraging the strengths of polycarbonate and nylon effectively, both switches achieve a pleasing auditory balance—sharp and crisper with the polycarbonate top and deeper and fuller with the nylon bottom. Frequent users of such switches can expect a similar typing experience, characterized by the high-pitched sounds upon key release and rounded tones during key presses, thanks to the shared material composition across both models.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch share identical specifications, boasting both a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This parity in force measurements suggests that users will experience similarly responsive feedback and keystroke engagement when using either switch. With both switches being classified as light, they are particularly suited for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons, as the lower resistance can reduce fatigue over time. Therefore, those who favor a lighter touch and a smooth typing experience might find both options equally appealing. Conversely, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel in their switches may want to consider alternatives with heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Gravel linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Silver the shorter option between the two. For gamers who prioritize quicker response times and a more immediate keypress action, the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be the better choice due to its reduced travel distance. Conversely, the HMX Gravel, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile and deliberate feel when typing, thereby providing a sense of depth. While both switches offer a satisfying linear experience, the slight difference in their travel distances could influence user preferences based on their individual typing and gaming styles.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel 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 Silver switches deliver a rich auditory experience characterized by their bassy, low-pitched, and thocky qualities. The deeper resonance of these switches produces satisfying thuds with each keystroke, making them particularly appealing for users who value a robust sound profile during gaming sessions or typing. In contrast, the HMX Gravel's sound qualities are currently unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this regard. However, users may enjoy the G Pro 3.0 Silver’s unique acoustic characteristics as part of their overall typing or gaming experience.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches boast descriptors like buttery and creamy, which indicate a remarkably smooth keystroke experience. This means that users can expect effortless transitions between key presses, which can enhance typing speed and overall enjoyment, especially during lengthy gaming marathons or intensive typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel's tactile qualities are unspecified at this time, making it challenging to ascertain how they might differ or compare in terms of feel. Should the Gravel switches provide a smooth and comfortable typing experience similar to that of the G Pro Silver, users may find themselves equally content with either choice.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switches stand out for their rich sound profile and buttery smooth feel, making them an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike. The HMX Gravel switches remain an enigma in terms of sound and feel qualities. Meanwhile, if the Gravel switch shares similar smoothness in typing experience or enjoyable sound characteristics, users can anticipate a comparable level of satisfaction with that option as well. Ultimately, your choice may come down to personal preferences in sound and tactile feedback, but if you wish to explore a swift and smooth switch setup, the G Pro 3.0 Silver’s standout features offer a compelling argument for its efficacy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Gravel linear switch ultimately depends on your primary usage and preferences. If you're primarily a gamer seeking rapid responsiveness, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is your best bet. With its shorter travel distance and bassy, thocky sound profile, these switches can provide that exhilarating feedback you crave during intense gaming sessions, giving you the edge you need in competitive scenarios. On the other hand, if you're after a smooth and refined typing experience for long hours of productivity or casual use, the HMX Gravel switch shines in that area. Its emphasis on a buttery, creamy feel allows your fingers to glide effortlessly over the keys, making it an excellent choice for typing enthusiasts who appreciate a satisfying tactile experience without excessive resistance. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize gaming performance or an enjoyable typing experience.
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