Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Sunset Gleam offer unique experiences catered to different user preferences, particularly for gamers and enthusiasts. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver stands out with its exceptionally short travel distance of 3.4mm, designed to facilitate rapid key presses that can give competitive gamers an edge. This switch not only boasts a satisfying auditory quality with its medium-high pitch but also enhances aesthetics with its vibrant RGB compatibility. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam appeals to those who appreciate a more refined typing experience, featuring a carefully crafted blend of materials that results in a subtle top-out feel combined with an addictive clack, thanks to HMX's renowned factory lube. While both switches promise a smooth linear feel that minimizes tactile feedback, their differing characteristics may influence your choice based on whether you're prioritizing speed in gaming or a more tactile auditory 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

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.40

$3.27 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Sunset Gleam both feature polycarbonate top housings, which means they share several acoustic characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate, noted for its stiffness, results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when the keys are actuated. This shared material not only promotes a clear and resonant auditory experience but also enhances the visual appeal of the switches, thanks to its transparent nature. The translucency of the polycarbonate is especially advantageous for users who enjoy using RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant light diffusion and an aesthetically pleasing look, regardless of whether they are using the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Sunset Gleam.

On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a classic choice that delivers a notably different sound experience. The nylon’s softer composition leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile, which contrasts with the sharper tones emitted from the polycarbonate top housing. This pairing results in a unique sound event when the switches are pressed: the impact of the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback is primarily influenced by the nylon bottom, while the release sound is more prominently shaped by the polycarbonate top. As a result, both switches, despite having the same materials for each housing section, will provide an overall consistent performance that balances crispness and depth.

Ultimately, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and HMX Sunset Gleam utilize the same materials for both their top and bottom housings, the cumulative effect of these materials provides a harmonious blend of sound profiles. The combination of a crisp, resonant sound from the polycarbonate top and a deep, rounded tone from the nylon bottom ensures that users will have a delightful auditory experience with either option. Therefore, whether one opts for the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Sunset Gleam, the resulting sound and feel will be similar, making them both commendable choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for specific acoustic attributes.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch to the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces reveal some interesting distinctions and similarities. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sunset Gleam features a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. Thus, the Sunset Gleam is the lighter option of the two. This difference in actuation force means that the Sunset Gleam may offer a more effortless typing experience for those who favor lighter switches, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Despite this, both switches are considered light, appealing to users who prefer less resistance. The bottom out forces are also relatively close, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver being slightly stronger at 50 grams compared to the Sunset Gleam's 48 grams, providing a marginally more substantial tactile feedback. Overall, for users who prioritize lighter switches, the HMX Sunset Gleam is the preferred choice, while those who favor a touch more resistance may lean toward the G Pro 3.0 Silver.

Travel distance

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Silver the shorter option of the two, appealing particularly to gamers who favor quicker response times and a more immediate tactile experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam, with its 3.5 mm travel distance, offers a slightly deeper keystroke that some users might prefer for a more satisfying typing experience, as it avoids feeling too abrupt. While both switches are relatively close in their travel distances, the G Pro 3.0 Silver's design aligns more closely with modern trends favoring shorter distances for enhanced speed, whereas the Sunset Gleam caters to those who appreciate a bit more depth in their key presses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Sunset Gleam, the G Pro Silver stands out with its rich auditory characteristics. It produces a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound, offering a deep and satisfying auditory feedback during key presses, which many gamers find exhilarating. These qualities contribute to a robust acoustic experience that resonates well with users seeking both performance and enjoyment. In contrast, the sound profile of the Sunset Gleam remains unspecified, making it difficult to assess its auditory qualities directly relative to the G Pro Silver.

In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver excels with its buttery and creamy sensations. This smooth keystroke experience enables fluidity during typing, giving users a comfortable and enjoyable interaction with their keyboard. The factory lube applied ensures that each press feels seamless, much like gliding across the keys. The tactile feedback encourages an engaging typing experience. Again, the HMX Sunset Gleam lacks detailed information on its feel, leaving its tactile qualities uncharted at this point.

Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver presents a clear advantage in terms of both sound and feel—boasting rich auditory experiences and an exceptionally smooth typing sensation—the lack of specific details regarding the Sunset Gleam leaves some ambiguity. If you value acoustic depth and fluidity in your typing experience, the G Pro Silver is a compelling option. Meanwhile, the HMX Sunset Gleam could still provide a satisfying alternative, but its exact qualities remain to be discovered.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you're primarily focused on gaming, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is likely your best choice due to its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, which allows for rapid key presses and swift response times that give you an edge in competitive scenarios. Coupled with its thocky sound profile, you can enjoy an immersive auditory experience that enhances your gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you're seeking a more balanced typing experience, perhaps for both gaming and typing, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a smooth, buttery feel thanks to its excellent factory lubrication and thoughtful material design. While it may not have the same responsive edge as the G Pro 3.0 Silver, its comfortable top-out and satisfying clack make it well-suited for lengthy typing sessions. Ultimately, consider whether your primary focus is on gaming performance or an enjoyable typing experience, and this will guide you in selecting the switch that best fits your style.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver Linear

$3.40

$3.27 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more