Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Lotus are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics for users to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is renowned for its budget-friendly excellence, providing a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy feel when typing. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, giving users a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant, the Lotus switch is characterized by a different set of features. 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
POM
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-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Lotus, we see that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing while the Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Lotus produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a rounder sound. While both materials have their own unique advantages, they cater to different preferences in sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Lotus feature nylon bottom housings. This material choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. The similarities in bottom housing material suggest that users can expect a consistent typing experience when it comes to the sound profile and feel of pressing down on the keys. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, each switch may still exhibit slight variations in sound due to other factors such as keycap design and switch mechanism.
Overall, the housing materials of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Lotus play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience of these switches. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing offers a clearer and resonant sound with crispness, the Lotus's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound with a rounder tone. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent sound profile that elicits a rich and immersive typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different sound preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch present a clear contrast in weight. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a medium-heavy actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. In comparison, the Lotus offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Lotus, while those seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Gateron switch has a slightly longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus switch offers a shorter travel distance, which can provide a quicker response time, ideal for gamers looking for speed and agility in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided in the information given. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its higher-pitched clacky sound, the Lotus switch may offer a different sound experience that could be similar or different based on the user's preference in sound profiles, board, and keycap choices.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This smooth and buttery sensation makes typing on these switches a delight. However, the HMX Lotus linear switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided in the information shared. As with sound, the feel of a switch is also influenced by various factors such as materials, lubrication, and personal preference.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch excels in providing a high-pitched and resonant sound profile along with a polished and creamy typing feel. On the other hand, while specific descriptors for the sound and feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch are not provided, it offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound for a super bouncy feeling. Ultimately, users can expect a different but enjoyable typing experience with each switch, depending on their preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be a great choice. It offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with a polished and creamy feel for smooth typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy typing experience with a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and budget constraints. Consider these factors carefully before making your final choice between the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Lotus switches.
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