Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, one may find themselves comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Poro, both of which are linear switches designed to enhance typing and gaming experiences, but they cater to slightly different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver shines with its rapid 3.4mm travel distance, offering gamers a significant edge due to its lightning-fast responsiveness and a medium-high pitch sound that adds excitement to each keystroke. It also features a frosted light diffuser, making it a visually appealing option for RGB enthusiasts. In contrast, the HMX Poro stands out with its meticulously lubricated design, providing an incredibly smooth typing experience accompanied by a poppy and clacky sound profile, drawing in those who value a tactile auditory feedback. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver prioritizes speed and competitive performance, the HMX Poro focuses on the seamless glide of keystrokes and satisfying sounds. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Poro exhibit distinct differences in their construction, leading to varied auditory experiences during key presses. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiff composition that results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic allows for enhanced clarity and resonance in auditory feedback, making it particularly appealing for users who appreciate a more pronounced sound when typing. Additionally, the polycarbonate's translucency plays a pivotal role in accommodating RGB lighting aesthetics, making the overall illumination more vivid and visually impactful.
In contrast, the HMX Poro utilizes a nylon top housing, which is a classic material known for its softer nature. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, a stark contrast to the brighter tones produced by the G Pro 3.0 Silver. The nylon material absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience during key presses. This difference in sound properties can significantly influence a typist's preference, especially for those who might prioritize a more subdued and rich sound over the sharper tones provided by polycarbonate. As a result, while they may serve a similar functional purpose, the acoustic output of these two switches can create a notably different typing atmosphere.
Notably, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Poro feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to the broader sound profile shared between them. The nylon bottom will bring forth a consistent, deeper sound when the switches bottom out, regardless of the variation in the top housing materials. This shared trait allows users to experience a unified feeling in the bottom-out phase but diverges during the release of the key, where the qualities of the top housing become prominent. Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the G Pro 3.0 Silver creates a sharper experience, while the nylon top housing of the HMX Poro provides a softer, warmer auditory feedback, showcasing how different materials dramatically shape user interaction with mechanical switches.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch share identical specifications, boasting an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This similarity ensures that users will experience comparable performance in terms of keystroke activation and bottoming out. Both switches are classified as light, making them suitable for long typing sessions and extended gaming marathons, allowing users to maintain comfort without experiencing significant fatigue. Those who prefer a more tactile experience might find these switches less satisfying, but for users seeking a softer touch, the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Poro deliver an evenly matched performance. As a result, either switch would be a great choice for gamers or office workers looking for ease and efficiency in their keyboard experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Poro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm signifies that the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the shorter option, making it potentially more responsive for gamers who prefer quicker keystrokes and faster response times. On the other hand, the HMX Poro's longer travel distance may appeal to those who favor a more substantial typing experience, as the added depth can offer a more tactile feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more traditional typing depth.
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 Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch produces a rich auditory experience characterized by a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky profile. This sound quality combines deep resonance with a satisfying thud when the keys are pressed and released, creating an engaging atmosphere, especially during gaming sessions. The thocky nature of these switches enhances the overall tactile experience, making each keystroke feel impactful and satisfying. In contrast, details about the HMX Poro linear switch's sound profile remain unclear, as specific descriptors have not been provided. Consequently, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver delivers an exciting auditory engagement, the Poro’s sound characteristics are yet to be defined.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a notably smooth typing experience, described as both buttery and creamy. This sensation is likely enhanced by factory lubrication that ensures effortless key presses and a seamless flow in typing. The tactile feedback feels luxurious, allowing users to glide over the keys with precision. Details regarding the feel of the HMX Poro switch remain unspecified, which leaves a gap in understanding how it will compare. Given that the Poro is known for its smooth keystrokes, one might anticipate a comparable level of satisfaction, though this remains conjecture until more information is available.
In summary, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch excels in providing an immersive auditory experience and a notably smooth tactile sensation ideal for gaming, the qualities of the HMX Poro linear switch are less defined in terms of sound and feel. If ease of use and responsive engagement are what you seek, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is a solid choice. However, without more information on the Poro's characteristics, it is challenging to draw direct comparisons. As the hobbyist's journey progresses, personal preference will play a vital role in determining which switch ultimately feels and sounds best in your typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Poro linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and intended use. If you're a gamer seeking rapid response times and a competitive edge, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is your go-to option, thanks to its shorter travel distance and fast actuation, which can enhance your gaming performance. Additionally, its deeper, thocky sound profile delivers an immersive auditory experience that can elevate your setup with engaging bassy tones. On the other hand, if you're more focused on a smooth, satisfying typing experience, the HMX Poro switches would be beneficial, offering a silkier feel with their lubricated structure and a poppy sound profile that makes typing both enjoyable and lively. Their slightly lighter actuation could be more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions, providing a delightful tactile feedback that feels effortless. Therefore, your choice should reflect whether your primary use is gaming or typing—lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Silver for gaming exploits, or opt for the HMX Poro for a pleasurable and smooth typing experience.
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