Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Swift, both of which are linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 White is designed for delicate typists, offering a light actuation force of 38g and a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Swift stands out with a deeper sound profile and a silky smoothness, complemented by its 42g actuation force. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, with the G Pro 3.0 White being budget-friendly and the Swift offering a different sound 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
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Swift utilize nylon for their bottom housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch.
On the other hand, the key difference lies in the top housing material used for these switches. The G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the HMX Swift's nylon top housing. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a suitable choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This distinction in top housing material indicates that while both switches may offer a deep and full typing experience, the sound produced by the G Pro 3.0 White will be noticeably crisper and sharper.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the HMX Swift may come down to personal preference in sound profile. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the G Pro 3.0 White with its polycarbonate top housing may be the better option. However, if you lean towards a deeper and fuller sound, the HMX Swift's nylon top housing could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the materials used in their construction, providing users with a variety of options to cater to their individual preferences.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch both offer a light typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 White being slightly lighter in terms of actuation force at 38 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 White requires 45 grams, while the Swift needs 50 grams. Both switches provide a satisfyingly light typing feel, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel may lean towards the HMX Swift for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience for users. The G Pro 3.0 White offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Swift's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the G Pro 3.0 White offering a touch more depth, and the Swift providing a slightly faster response. Both switches offer quality performance, but for those seeking a shorter travel distance, the Swift may be the preferred option.
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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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 is described as having a more neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly loud. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is noted for its clacky sound, offering a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 White being more suited for a quieter typing experience while the Swift provides a more pronounced and distinctive sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is known for its creamy and feathery typing experience, offering smooth and effortless keystrokes with minimal finger fatigue. Conversely, the HMX Swift switch provides an easy-to-press and bouncy feel, requiring minimal force to activate the keys and providing a spring-like feedback. Despite these differences, both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 White focusing on smoothness and lightness while the Swift emphasizes a lively and low-impact feel.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and HMX Swift switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 White provides a more subdued sound and a creamier typing experience, the HMX Swift offers a clacky sound and a bouncy feel. Depending on whether you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience or a more pronounced and responsive feel, you can choose between these two switches for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and can deliver a satisfying typing experience based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you are looking for an ultra-light actuation force and a budget-friendly option with a medium-high pitch and bright RGB lighting, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound profile and a smoother typing experience with a slightly lighter actuation force, the HMX Swift linear switch could be the better fit. Consider the sound and feel characteristics described for each switch to determine which aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that suits your typing style best.
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