Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your typing preferences, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Hibiscus each present their own unique appeal, particularly for fans of linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 White is designed with the delicate typist in mind, featuring a remarkably light actuation force of only 38g, making it incredibly easy to press—ideal for users who value a responsive feel in their keystrokes. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, enhancing not just performance but also aesthetics. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus delivers an experience characterized by unparalleled smoothness and an ultra-light actuation force, allowing for a satisfyingly clacky and poppy typing experience that many enthusiasts crave. While both switches promise comfort and a pleasant auditory feedback, they cater to slightly different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
38g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Hibiscus switches demonstrate a notable contrast in their top housing materials, which significantly affects their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer properties that lead to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This material’s inherent translucency also enhances the aesthetic appeal of RGB lighting, making it an attractive choice for users who prioritize visual effects alongside performance. On the other hand, the Hibiscus utilizes a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its softer attributes, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The contrasting characteristics of these housings result in differing auditory experiences, with the G Pro 3.0 White providing a more pronounced resonance compared to the softer, rounder tones of the Hibiscus.
In terms of bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Hibiscus switch to nylon, creating a similarity in the overall sound profile at the point of bottoming out. The nylon material employed in both switches promotes a deeper and fuller sound due to its ability to absorb more sound waves compared to harder plastics. This shared feature ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying acoustic experience when a key is pressed down fully. Despite the differences in their top housings, the use of nylon on the bottom creates a consistent feel and sound between the two switches, highlighting the importance of bottom housing material in shaping the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, while the G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Hibiscus switches differ in their top materials, the nylon bottom housing in both creates a bridge, allowing for a somewhat shared experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 White’s polycarbonate top offers a more pronounced sound upon release due to its stiffness, while the Hibiscus’s nylon top contributes to a smoother and softer release. However, as both switches feature nylon at the bottom, users can expect that both switches will provide a satisfying depth and fullness when bottomed out. This interplay between different materials means that users can still achieve similar acoustic results through their typing experience, albeit distinguished by the unique qualities of their respective top housings.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch to the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 White features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a less straining typing experience, perfect for long hours of work or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus requires a slightly stronger actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, which may offer a more substantial, satisfying push for those who enjoy a firmer typing feedback. As such, while both switches are categorized as light, the G Pro 3.0 White is the lighter option, making it more suitable for prolonged use without fatigue, whereas the HMX Hibiscus caters to users who appreciate a heavier feel in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, we find that the G Pro 3.0 White has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Hibiscus features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference indicates that the G Pro 3.0 White provides a more traditional and deeper typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a substantial tactile feedback. In contrast, the Hibiscus, with its shorter 3.5 mm travel, caters to gamers and users seeking quicker response times, although some may find this abruptness less desirable. Ultimately, if you're looking for less travel and faster actuation, the Hibiscus is the better choice; however, for a more grounded keystroke experience, the G Pro 3.0 White stands out with its longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White for $3.27.
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus 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
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch to the HMX Hibiscus linear switch in terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 White is known for its medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback. It exhibits a clacky sound signature, producing a crisp and percussive tone that can enhance the typing experience. However, it can also display a range of sound profiles, including a more subdued response depending on the keyboard and keycap choices. In contrast, specific sound characteristics for the HMX Hibiscus remain unknown, but it is noted to have a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. Therefore, while you can expect a lively auditory experience from both switches, the exact nuances of the Hibiscus sound are yet to be detailed.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 White stands out with descriptors such as creamy, easy-to-press, and silky. These switches promise a remarkably smooth and buttery typing experience, requiring only a light actuation force of 38g, which significantly reduces finger fatigue. Qualities like feathery and mild typing sensations make the G Pro 3.0 White ideal for both casual and prolonged use. The HMX Hibiscus, however, does not have a described feel profile available at this time, making a direct comparison in this regard challenging. Without the specific characteristics of the Hibiscus, one might assume that its smoothness and light actuation lend itself to ease of use akin to the G Pro 3.0 White.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and HMX Hibiscus linear switches are designed to enhance the typing experience, they have specific attributes that may appeal to different users. The G Pro 3.0 White offers a combination of satisfying sound and a remarkably comfortable feel with features tailored for extended typing, while the Hibiscus presents an intriguing but unspecified alternative that may also cater to enthusiasts seeking smoothness and auditory pleasure. With both promising impressive qualities, those looking for similar tactile responses will likely find satisfaction in either option, particularly if sound and actuation force are prioritized.
Conclusion
In closing, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Hibiscus linear switches ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option that allows for effortless typing with a very light actuation force of 38 grams, the G Pro 3.0 White is an excellent selection. Its creamy feel and light feedback make it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or when you're looking for a responsive, low-impact experience. Additionally, the switch's relatively clacky sound adds a touch of auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, if you desire a smoother, more luxurious typing experience characterized by a unique clacky and poppy sound with a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams, the HMX Hibiscus switch might be the better fit for you. Its ultra-smooth action elevates your typing to a more enjoyable level, catering perfectly to both typists and gamers who value a polished, satisfying experience. Thus, consider what aspects are most important to you—whether it’s lightness and affordability or premium feel and auditory feedback—to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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