Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Xinhai. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is a linear switch known for its lightning-fast responsiveness and exceptional gaming experience, thanks to its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. With vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch that adds an exciting auditory element, this switch is perfect for gamers looking for a competitive edge without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch offers a unique blend of soft acoustics and crisp, higher-pitched resonance, making it a great choice for those seeking a more sophisticated and precise 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
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Xinhai feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing. In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, both switches will offer a similar experience with their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Xinhai differ in their bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Xinhai also features a nylon bottom housing, offering the same deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of nylon housing materials.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the HMX Xinhai provide a contrast in their housing materials, with the former boasting a combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings, while the latter features polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings. This difference in material composition can impact the overall sound profile and feel of the switches, with the top housing having more influence on the sound upon key release, and the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite these variations, both switches ultimately offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light in terms of required force. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Xinhai slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, but they both offer a similar typing experience due to their lightness. Both switches would be ideal for users looking for a smoother and lighter typing feel, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference for a slightly lighter or heavier feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar keypress feel and distance traveled when using either of these switches. The consistency in travel distance between the two switches allows for a uniform typing experience, whether using the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the Xinhai. The similarities in travel distance make these switches suitable options for those who prefer a specific amount of key travel for typing or gaming.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai 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 switch offers a bassy and low-pitched profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. This, combined with a thocky quality, creates a satisfying auditory experience that resonates with many gamers. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is known for its clacky sound, offering a sharp and snappy tone that adds a crisp and percussive element to typing. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences and styles of typing.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This seamless and uniform typing sensation enhances the overall typing feel and provides a satisfying tactile feedback. In comparison, the HMX Xinhai switch is characterized by its bouncy and creamy feel, providing a spring-like feedback with a silky sensation during typing. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, catering to users who prefer either a smooth and buttery feel or a springy and elastic feedback.
Considering the subjective qualities of both switches, it is evident that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch excels in providing a bassy and low-pitched sound profile along with a buttery and creamy typing feel. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, catering to those who prefer a sharp and snappy auditory experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, gamers and typists can choose between these switches to enhance their overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can elevate the user's typing and gaming sessions, providing a personalized and immersive experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option that offers lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting for an exceptional gaming experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that combines subtle sophistication with precise performance, featuring a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp sound, the Xinhai switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a gaming-focused switch with competitive advantages or a switch that offers a unique blend of sound and feel for a more refined typing experience.
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