Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. HMX KD200

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches that enhance your gaming experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX KD200 each stand out with their unique characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is designed for gamers seeking rapid responsiveness, offering a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm that ensures every keystroke registers instantly. This switch is not only tuned for performance but also features vibrant RGB lighting enhanced by a frosted light diffuser, making it an aesthetic addition to any gaming setup. On the other hand, the HMX KD200, renowned as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, appeals to those who appreciate an auditory response in their typing experience, providing a crisp and satisfying sound with each key press. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver prioritizes speed and visual flair, the KD200 emphasizes a pronounced acoustic feedback that many enthusiasts crave. 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 Silver Linear

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.40

$3.27 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX KD200 display a distinct divergence in their top housing materials, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing that is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is largely attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a more resonant audio experience. Its translucency also plays a key role in enhancing RGB lighting effects, making it a favorable choice for users who prioritize aesthetics in their keyboard setup. In contrast, the KD200 opts for a nylon top housing, which tends to absorb sound and contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon results in a more muted and rounded sound, creating a considerable difference in auditory experience when typing on these switches.

Interestingly, while the top housings of the G Pro 3.0 Silver and KD200 differ significantly, their bottom housings are both made of nylon. This commonality results in a similar auditory foundation for both switches, as the nylon material provides a tight and warm experience regardless of the top housing differences. The nylon bottom housing’s ability to absorb sound contributes to the overall tactile feel and bottom-out sound when keys are pressed. This shared characteristic means that users can expect a consistent feel while typing, even if the auditory feedback changes based on the top housing material.

Ultimately, the contrasts in the top housing materials elucidate the broader sound profile distinctions between the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the KD200, while their similar bottom housing allows for a consistent tactile experience. The G Pro 3.0 Silver’s sharper, more resonant audio provides an invigorating and bright typing experience, contrasted against the warmer and rounder sound from the KD200’s nylon top. While users may gravitate towards one switch over the other based on sound preference, they will find that both maintain a cohesive typing feel due to their shared nylon bottom housing. This interplay of materials highlights the nuanced balance between auditory and tactile sensations in keyboard switches.

Weight

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch offer identical specifications when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces, both requiring an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This equivalence means that users can expect the same keystroke activation and bottoming out experience from either switch. As both switches are classified as light, they are suitable for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming, appealing to those who prefer less finger fatigue. Since there is no weight difference between the two, users will achieve similar results regardless of which switch they choose, making either option a compelling choice for those seeking a softer typing or gaming feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KD200 features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the shorter option, promoting a quicker response time ideal for gamers who favor faster keystrokes. On the other hand, the KD200, with its longer travel distance, may cater to those who appreciate a more tactile feel and depth in their keystrokes, which can contribute to a more deliberate typing experience. Consequently, while both switches may offer a satisfying performance, the choice between them depends on whether the user prefers a more responsive action with the shorter G Pro 3.0 Silver or the greater depth of the KD200.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch produces a unique auditory experience characterized by its low-pitched, thocky tones. This means that each keystroke exudes a rich, deep sound, reminiscent of a satisfying “thud” or “knock” upon pressing and releasing each key. This sound profile adds an engaging auditory element to the typing experience, making it enjoyable, particularly for gamers looking for that immediate feedback. Meanwhile, the HMX KD200 switch lacks a detailed sound description, leaving its acoustic qualities unknown for comparison purposes.

In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches excel with descriptors such as buttery and creamy, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This allows for an effortless typing sensation, as users can glide across the keys with precision and ease. The design and materials contribute to a silky tactile experience during both gaming and typographic tasks. The feel of the HMX KD200, however, remains uncharacterized in the available information, leaving it ambiguous how it may compare to the G Pro 3.0 Silver in terms of tactile feedback and response.

In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch stands out for its rich sound profile and smooth feel—making it particularly attractive for gamers and typists who appreciate auditory and tactile satisfaction—the HMX KD200's qualities remain largely unknown. Should the KD200 switch possess similar attributes, users could expect comparable results in both sound and feel; however, without specific descriptions, it's challenging to make direct comparisons. Thus, the choice may ultimately come down to personal preference and brand loyalty among users.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, your choice should align with your primary usage and preferences. If you're primarily a gamer seeking an edge, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the clear winner due to its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, allowing for rapid key presses that can enhance your gaming performance. Its buttery and creamy feel, paired with a thocky sound profile, adds to an immersive experience, making it a fantastic choice for those who appreciate both tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, if you're after a switch that makes a statement with its notable clackiness, providing an uplifting auditory experience while typing, the HMX KD200 might be more suitable. Although it shares the same bottom-out force of 50 grams, its distinct sound can add personality to your setup, particularly if you enjoy a more pronounced acoustics experience during everyday typing tasks. Ultimately, your decision should factor in whether you value speed and performance in gaming or a unique sound profile in day-to-day usage.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver Linear

$3.40

$3.27 per 10

Learn more

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more