Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two compelling options stand out: the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Macchiato, both of which feature a linear design. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White is celebrated for its budget-friendly price and an incredibly light actuation force of just 38g, making it an excellent choice for typists who seek a feather-light touch in their keystrokes. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects, contributing to a visually appealing setup, while its medium-high pitch offers satisfying auditory feedback—a nice bonus for those who enjoy the sound of their typing. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato caters to users who prioritize a silky smooth typing experience, combined with a bright sound profile that can elevate the overall satisfaction of their typing sessions. While both switches offer the smoothness typical of linear switches, their unique characteristics can greatly impact the user's 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
38g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Macchiato, there is a striking contrast in their top housing materials, which significantly impacts their sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 White utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing. This material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, primarily due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clearer and more resonant auditory experience. On the opposite end, the HMX Macchiato employs a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, naturally absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. This fundamental difference in material choice defines not only the sound characteristics when typing but also the overall aesthetic appeal when RGB lighting is considered.
In terms of their bottom housing, both switches make use of nylon, positioning them similarly in terms of sound characteristics. The nylon bottom housing in both the G Pro 3.0 White and the Macchiato leads to a deeper and fuller auditory experience that resonates with users who prefer a more muted sound when bottoming out. This shared material for the bottom housing means that when typing, both switches will provide similar sensations and auditory feedback, as both are designed to absorb sound effectively. However, the impact of the top housing on sound will be distinctly different, with the Macchiato maintaining its deeper qualities while the G Pro 3.0 White leans towards a more crisp sound when lifting off the keys.
Ultimately, while both switches share nylon in their bottom housing, the differing materials in the top housing create a notable divergence in their overall sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 White, with its polycarbonate top, will be more suitable for users who favor a brighter sound and visual effects, especially in setups with RGB lighting. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato caters to those who appreciate a deeper and warmer auditory experience. Thus, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profiles, as the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver similar experiences in terms of bottoming out and overall tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, notable differences emerge in both 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 ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience during long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato offers a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to users who appreciate a more substantial push feel while typing. While both switches are relatively light, the G Pro 3.0 White provides a lighter overall experience compared to the HMX Macchiato, making it the better choice for those who prioritize comfort during extended usage.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch is identical, measuring 4 mm each. This means that when pressing down on the keys of either switch, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Consequently, both switches will provide a comparable keystroke experience, allowing for similar tactile feedback and responsiveness during use. Whether a gamer or typist, individuals can expect consistent results with either option due to this matching 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 Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato 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 considering the sound characteristics of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch, it presents a moderate auditory profile with potential descriptors ranging from clacky to subdued. This means that while it can produce a crisp and sharp sound, suitable for those who enjoy a percussive tactile feedback, it also accommodates more reserved environments due to its subdued qualities. In contrast, the sound profile of the HMX Macchiato switch is not specified, leading to an unknown quality. This variability in sound characteristics is important for users who may prefer a certain auditory experience depending on their typing environment, whether at home or in a shared office space.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 White switch excels with a blend of creamy, easy-to-press, and silky sensations. This switch provides an exceptionally smooth and responsive typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions, minimizing finger fatigue with its light actuation force. The descriptors such as feathery and mild indicate that the G Pro White fosters an environment where users can type with ease and comfort, effortlessly gliding across the keyboard. On the other hand, the specific qualities of the HMX Macchiato in terms of feel remain undefined, leaving a gap in comparison regarding how it might match the smooth and low-resistance experience offered by the G Pro 3.0.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch shows clear strengths in both sound and feel, providing a versatile option for typists who desire a light and satisfying typing experience with predictable auditory feedback. The lack of defined qualities for the HMX Macchiato switch in sound and feel creates uncertainty about its performance comparisons; however, should its tactile qualities align similarly to the G Pro 3.0, users could expect a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, your choice may revolve around personal auditory preferences and the desired typing sensation, with the G Pro 3.0 White standing out for its user-friendly qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you're after a budget-friendly, lightweight option that excels in providing a sensitive and effortless typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 White is the ideal choice. Its light actuation force and creamy feel make it perfect for delicate typists, especially in situations where prolonged typing could lead to fatigue. The clacky sound profile can also add a lively touch to your typing experience, which is great for personal use or when working in a more relaxed environment. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with a touch of sophistication and don't mind the slightly higher actuation force, the HMX Macchiato is your go-to. It's tailored for those who appreciate a more refined auditory experience and a gentle tactile response, making it suitable for various typing scenarios, including quieter office settings or shared spaces. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing style and the demands of your workspace, ensuring you find the perfect match that enhances your keyboard experience.
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