Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches, but they offer distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is ideal for gamers looking for a budget-friendly option that provides lightning-fast responsiveness due to its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. The vibrant RGB lighting and medium-high pitch of the G Pro Silver switches enhance the overall gaming experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus switches offer a super bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50g and a bright, resonant sound. While the G Pro Silver switches focus on gaming performance, the Lotus switches prioritize a tactile typing 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
Nylon
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-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Lotus, one key difference lies in the materials used for the top housing. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon. This contrast in sound profile is important to consider for those who prioritize different typing experiences based on the housing material used.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Lotus feature nylon bottom housings. This shared material choice means that typing on switches from either keyboard will elicit a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. The absorbent nature of nylon helps to create a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics, providing a unique typing experience that can be appreciated by enthusiasts of different preferences. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, the overall typing experience may still vary due to the top housing differences between the two keyboards.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in keyboards like the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Lotus can greatly impact the sound profile and typing experience. Each material, whether it be polycarbonate or nylon, brings its own set of qualities to the overall feel of the keyboard. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a sharper, crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Lotus provides a deeper, fuller sound with its nylon top and bottom housings. Ultimately, enthusiasts may prefer one keyboard over the other based on their personal preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch are both equal, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches are considered light in terms of force required, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Those who enjoy typing for extended periods or engaging in long gaming sessions may appreciate the lighter weight for reduced fatigue. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may opt for switches with heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Lotus switches offer a similar force profile, providing users with comparable results in terms of typing dynamics.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, slightly shorter than the HMX Lotus linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While the 0.1 mm may seem minimal, it can make a noticeable difference in typing or gaming experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Silver due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the HMX Lotus with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus 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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are known for delivering a deep and rich sound profile, with a bassy and low-pitched tone that adds to the overall gaming experience. The thocky sound produced by these switches enhances the tactile feedback during key presses, providing a satisfying auditory element to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus switches offer a super bouncy feel with a bright and resonant sound, making every keystroke a delight. While the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Lotus switches provide unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This seamless and effortless typing sensation enhances the overall comfort and satisfaction while using these switches. Unfortunately, the feel of the HMX Lotus switches is not explicitly described in the given information. However, based on the description of the sound and the overall reputation of HMX switches, it can be inferred that the Lotus switches may offer a similarly smooth and satisfying typing experience comparable to the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Lotus switches offer unique subjective qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and potentially feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are known for their bassy sound profile and buttery feel, the HMX Lotus switches provide a bright and resonant sound that may offer a similarly smooth typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both of these switches can deliver a high-quality typing and gaming experience that enhances overall performance and enjoyment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a budget-friendly option with lightning-fast responsiveness, vibrant RGB lighting, and a medium-high pitch sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be a great choice for your gaming setup. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a super bouncy feeling, bright resonant sound, and a medium weight bottom out force, then the Lotus switch from HMX might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what features and characteristics align best with your gaming style and overall typing experience.
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