Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the differences between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches are quite pronounced. The G Pro 3.0 White is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force of just 38g, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a feather-light touch and quick responsiveness while typing or gaming. Its frosted light diffuser also enhances RGB lighting, appealing to users who enjoy vibrant aesthetics alongside performance. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a more tactile experience with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, delivering a satisfying bounce with each stroke. This switch is perfect for typists who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback, resulting in a more confident and deliberate typing experience. Both switches have their unique appeals: the G Pro 3.0 White for its ease of use and affordability, and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) for its robust sensation and auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
POM
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) feature intriguing differences in their housing materials that significantly influence their respective sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 White employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This choice allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, which produces a clear and resonant auditory experience. The use of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for users who utilize RGB lighting, as the material's transparency enhances the visual display. In stark contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) opts for a nylon top housing, a classic switch material that contributes a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This absorption capacity results in a more muted, rounded sound that eliminates some of the higher frequencies that polycarbonate might accentuate.
Both switches, despite their differing top housings, employ nylon for their bottom housings, leading to a shared auditory quality. The nylon bottom housing in both models enhances the typing experience by producing a duller and rounder sound profile that developers and enthusiasts alike find pleasing. Here, the softness of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, allowing the bottom-out sound to resonate deeply. In this way, both the G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) benefit from the fuller sound that nylon provides, creating a balanced auditory experience despite the discrepancies in their top housing materials.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials of the G Pro 3.0 White and HMX Lotus (Heavy) result in distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the G Pro 3.0 White leans into a crisper auditory experience with its polycarbonate top, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a rounder and more subdued sound, thanks to its nylon top housing. However, both switches share the sonic depth and quality imparted by their nylon bottom housings, yielding similar results in terms of overall sound absorption and key feedback. Users of either switch can expect a rich typing experience, though the tonal coloration will vary based on their material compositions.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch present notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 White features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a light switch that allows for comfortable, extended typing sessions—ideal for users who prioritize ease of use over tactile feedback. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it a heavier switch that appeals to those who seek a more substantial, tactile typing experience. Consequently, the G Pro 3.0 White is the lighter option, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier choice, making it essential for users to reflect on their preferences in typing force when selecting a switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch have different travel distances, with the G Pro 3.0 White measuring 4 mm and the Lotus (Heavy) at 3.5 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 the longer of the two, providing a more pronounced feel with its extra half millimeter—ideal for users who appreciate a deeper key press. On the other hand, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Lotus (Heavy) may appeal to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances can lead to faster actuation. While both switches cater to different preferences, choosing between them will depend on whether one prioritizes a more traditional and hearty depth or a snappier and more responsive typing experience.
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 Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) 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 it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch exhibits a versatile auditory profile. It can produce clacky sounds that lend a crisp and snappy quality to each keystroke, providing a lively typing experience. However, it also caters to a broader audience with a neutral sound characteristic, making it suitable for both home and professional settings. While some might appreciate its more subdued aspects, which dampen the noise level while still delivering feedback, this switch allows for a well-rounded auditory experience. In contrast, specific details about the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch sound profile are currently unknown, so a comparison in sound cannot be made.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 White shines with a range of descriptors that highlight its user-friendly characteristics. These switches provide a creamy and silky typing experience, which is enhanced by their lightweight nature, requiring a mere 38 grams of actuation force. This makes them easy to press, contributing to reduced finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions, a feature that many typists and gamers will appreciate. The subtle feel also means that users can type with comfort and fluidity. The Lotus (Heavy), however, possesses a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5 grams, which indicates a distinctly different typing feel, likely offering a bouncier experience when compared to the G Pro 3.0 White. Specific descriptors of its tactile sensation remain unknown, but its heavier weight suggests a firmer resistance on key presses.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is an excellent choice for those seeking a lightweight, smooth, and versatile typing experience enriched by various sound profiles that cater to different environments. Conversely, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) likely provides an engaging tactile experience, albeit with unknown qualities relating to its auditory and tactile feedback. While the two switches serve different typist preferences, both can deliver unique typing experiences: the G Pro is ideal for those valuing softness and low resistance, while the Lotus appeals to those who prefer a heavier, bouncier feel. Ultimately, selecting between them will depend on your personal typing style and sound preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, your preferences and typing habits will play a pivotal role. If you are someone who values a light actuation force and a buttery smooth feel, the G Pro 3.0 White may be the ideal choice. Its feather-light 38g actuation and creamy texture make it perfect for long typing sessions without any finger fatigue, making it suitable for delicate typists or those engaged in extensive writing or schoolwork. Additionally, the clacky sound profile provides a satisfying auditory feedback for a more engaging experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers more resistance with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 62.5 grams, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) may be more to your liking. Its bouncy feel and bright, resonant sound can elevate your typing enjoyment, making it well-suited for those who appreciate a more tactile feedback and a firmer keystroke, ideal for users who do a combination of typing and gaming. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a light, effortless touch or a more substantial, tactile response in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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