Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can greatly affect your typing experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a standout in the budget-friendly category, renowned for its higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel that enhances tactile engagement during use. Its characteristics make it an excellent option for gamers and typists seeking an affordable switch that doesn't compromise on performance. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight offers an impressive extended travel distance of 3.85mm, providing a slightly quieter typing experience while still delivering the signature clacky characteristics that HMX switches are known for. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow appeals to those looking for a crisp and spirited feedback, the Twilight attracts users who prefer a more subdued sound with more travel for added control. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
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
3.85 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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Twilight, a distinct difference can be observed in the composition of their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing which imparts a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for users seeking an engaging and lively auditory experience. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature contributes to this clarity and resonance, making it particularly beneficial in RGB setups due to its translucency. In contrast, the HMX Twilight opts for a nylon top housing, renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer properties of nylon absorb sound, creating a more muted auditory feedback that appeals to those who prefer a rounder sound experience. Thus, the choice of top housing material directly influences the overall sound signature, showcasing how these two switches differ in sensory output.
Examining the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Twilight utilize nylon material, which results in greater uniformity in their sound profiles. The nylon in both switches leads to a deeper and fuller typing experience due to its ability to dampen vibrations and absorb sound, thereby producing a duller tone when the key bottoms out. This similarity in bottom housing means that regardless of the differences in the top housings, the deeper sound quality hence a rounder experience remains consistent across both switches. As a result, individuals who appreciate the effect of nylon in a tactile typing experience will find common ground between the two models in this respect.
Ultimately, the combination of the differing top and identical bottom housing materials creates a unique sound dichotomy between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Twilight switches. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top offers a brighter sound upon release, the nylon both on top and bottom ensures a solidly profound bottoming-out experience. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight encapsulates a coherent and unified sonic signature through its entirely nylon design that mellows out the overall auditory feedback. For enthusiasts looking for tailored experiences, it's essential to consider how each combination impacts the typing feel and sound, knowing that while they diverge at the top, they harmonize at the bottom.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch with the HMX Twilight linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces become apparent. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Twilight features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an appealing choice for users who favor a gentler touch, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. Therefore, those seeking a lighter switch should opt for the Twilight, while those who appreciate a heavier push feel may gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. This clear difference in weight and feel suggests that users will experience distinctly different tactile sensations with each switch, catering to their individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it one of the more traditional options for key switches, while the HMX Twilight linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.85 mm. This 0.15 mm difference means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a deeper press, which might appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Conversely, the HMX Twilight, with its shorter travel distance, could provide a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking efficiency in their keystrokes. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences, those who lean towards a more pronounced key press should opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, whereas those who favor a snappier, more responsive experience might find the HMX Twilight more suitable. The difference in travel distances thus presents users with a choice that aligns with their personal typing or gaming style.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch delivers a higher-pitched clacky sound profile that can be quite engaging for users who appreciate the auditory feedback of their keystrokes. This resonant quality results in a clean and sharp auditory experience, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a more vibrant sound from their keyboard. In contrast, the HMX Twilight switch boasts a slightly quieter sound due to its extended 3.85mm travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a less intrusive auditory environment while still enjoying the distinct clack associated with HMX switches. While both switches feature a clacky sound, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow tends toward a more pronounced auditory experience compared to the subtler sound of the Twilight.
When discussing the feel of these switches, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is characterized by a polished and creamy texture that enhances the typing experience. This smooth and refined finish, possibly aided by factory lubing, allows for a sleek typing sensation that minimizes friction and enables smooth key travel. Users can expect a luxurious, buttery feel that makes typing enjoyable and effortless. As for the HMX Twilight switch, specific feel descriptors are currently unknown. However, it is reasonable to assume that the differences in weight, spring design, or travel distance could result in a distinctly different typing experience, even if the overall linear mechanism remains consistent.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and HMX Twilight linear switches cater to different preferences, particularly in sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow excels in delivering a vibrant auditory experience and a smooth typing sensation, while the Twilight offers a quieter alternative. Those drawn to a higher-pitched clunky sound and silky keystrokes will find satisfaction in the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, whereas users looking for a less noisy environment may lean more towards the Twilight. Ultimately, your choice will depend on the specific qualities you prioritize in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you lean towards a more tactile, polished experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is an excellent option. It provides a satisfying, bouncy feel coupled with a crisp, high-pitched sound that can enhance your overall typing experience, particularly if you enjoy that sharp auditory feedback. This switch is ideal for users who type frequently and appreciate a certain level of resistance, making it a great fit for both gaming and intensive typing sessions. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch and are looking for a smoother, quieter experience, the HMX Twilight might be your best bet. With its softer bottom-out force and extended travel distance, it allows for effortless key presses, which can be particularly beneficial for long hours of typing or gaming where fatigue might become a concern. Overall, both switches have their strengths, and your decision should reflect what you find most comfortable and enjoyable for your specific needs.
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