Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX KD200 present two compelling options, particularly for enthusiasts who prefer linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands as a prime example of budget-friendly excellence, offering a unique typing experience characterized by a higher pitched, clacky sound profile along with a bouncy tactile feel that some users may find energizing. In contrast, the HMX KD200 distinguishes itself within the HMX Film switch family as the clackiest option available, appealing to users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback while typeding. While both switches cater to different preferences, choosing between them often boils down to budget considerations and personal tactile desires in typing or gaming environments. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Ly
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
15.4mm long spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX KD200 utilize different materials for their top housing, which significantly influences their audible characteristics and overall user experience. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and transparency, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and clear sound profile. This quality makes polycarbonate particularly suitable for RGB lighting effects, as its translucency allows for enhanced illumination. In contrast, the KD200 opts for a nylon top housing, a classic material heralded for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon contributes to a sound that is more subdued and rounded, absorbing waves rather than amplifying them, which leads to distinctly different auditory results.
Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which will produce a more consistent sound experience between the two models when it comes to the bottom-out sound profile. The nylon material's inherent qualities, including its ability to absorb sound and create a soft bottoming feel, will soften the impact felt during typing regardless of the variations in the top housing. Consequently, users can expect a similar deep and rounded auditory experience in the bottoming action of both switches, highlighting the crucial role of bottom housing in shaping the typing experience.
In summary, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX KD200 offer contrasting experiences in terms of their top housing materials—polycarbonate versus nylon—their nylon bottom housings create a unified element in their typing and auditory signatures. This divergence in materials reinforces how the juxtaposition of the top and bottom housings affects a switch's overall performance. Ultimately, a user may enjoy crisp sounds from the G Pro 3.0 Yellow when pressing keys, while the KD200 delivers deeper tones; however, both models will provide users with a satisfying rounded sensation due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires an actuation force of 50 grams and has a bottom out force of 67 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the KD200 offers a lighter touch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of just 50 grams. Therefore, while both switches allow for actuation, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a heftier experience overall, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the KD200, being the lighter option, caters to those who seek prolonged typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. This means that if you're looking for a switch that feels heavier and offers more resistance, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be the better choice, whereas the KD200 would be ideal for those who appreciate a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, it becomes clear that they cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel and responsiveness. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional key feel, offering a hearty depth that some users may find satisfying. In contrast, the KD200 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. While shorter travel distances are increasingly sought after, especially by gamers who appreciate quicker response times, they can feel abrupt to those who are accustomed to longer acts of key travel. Therefore, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the HMX KD200 would be the preferable choice; however, if depth and a more substantial feel are your main concerns, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be more suited to your needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 sound profiles of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX KD200 linear switches, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is distinctly known for its high-pitched clacky sound. This characteristic offers a sharp and crisp auditory experience, often preferred by those seeking a more pronounced acoustic feedback without the richness or bassiness that some other switches might provide. Its resonant sound profile further enhances the sense of immersion during typing, making each keystroke feel both clear and pronounced. Meanwhile, the KD200 is recognized as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, suggesting it may also deliver a vibrant sound, but specific descriptors detailing its auditory profile are not available. Nevertheless, users can expect a noticeable auditory feedback distinctly different from more muted switch options.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow excels with its polished and creamy textures, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The polish contributes to reduced friction, allowing for effortless key travel, while the creamy sensation enhances the overall smoothness, making each keystroke feel like a glide. This combination results in a typing experience that is both sleek and enjoyable, likely appealing to typists who prioritize comfort and responsiveness. On the other hand, the specific feel characteristics of the KD200 remain unknown, leaving a gap in direct comparison. Without a detailed description of its tactile feedback or smoothness, one cannot establish how it competes against the defined luxurious qualities of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch stands out with its higher-pitched sound profile and notably smooth feel, making it an attractive option for those new to mechanical keyboards. While the KD200 also suggests a strong sound with its clackiness, lacking detailed information about its feel means it may not provide the same effortless typing experience. As a newcomer, if you value clear auditory feedback and a polished, creamy sensation while typing, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow might be the more reliable choice, offering predictable performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, it's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a switch that offers a medium-heavy actuation force and a distinctive, high-pitched sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is an excellent choice. Its polished and creamy feel contributes to a smooth typing experience that many users appreciate, especially when typing long documents or engaging in gaming sessions. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter switch that provides a pronounced audible feedback experience, the HMX KD200 is designed for you. Its clackier acoustic characteristics make it ideal for those who enjoy the auditory sensations of their keystrokes, while the lighter actuation force can be a more comfortable option if you find harder switches tiring. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you value a heavier, more tactile feel with sharper sounds or prefer the ease and expressiveness of a lighter, clacky switch.
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