Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the distinct qualities of options available on the market. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch stands out as a budget-friendly linear option, renowned for its higher-pitched clacky sound profile and bouncy typing feel, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy both tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction during use. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch offers a more refined typing experience, featuring a unique PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer acoustics profile alongside a POM stem that enhances the crispness and resonance of keystrokes. While both switches provide smooth actuation and a linear feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is often favored for its affordability and engaging sound characteristics, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) is dedicated to those seeking a more sophisticated touch with its emphasis on acoustics and performance. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), a distinct contrast emerges between their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's translucent nature allows for an enhanced RGB lighting effect, making it an appealing choice for aesthetically-minded users. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs more sound. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is perceived as duller and rounder when typing. The variation in sound signature between the two materials is significant, shaping the overall auditory experience of each switch.
Both switches, however, share a commonality in their bottom housing composition, as both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Xinhai (Heavy) utilize nylon. This consistency means that when typing, the impact of the bottom housing on sound and feel is largely similar across both switches. The nylon's characteristic softer texture provides a muffled yet pleasant auditory experience, contributing to a sense of depth regardless of the specific switch model. Consequently, even with the contrasting top housings, the shared nylon bottom housing will help users experience a consistent bottom-out feel and sound.
In summary, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) differ in their top housing materials—polycarbonate versus nylon—the nylon bottom housing guarantees a familiar typing experience characterized by a fuller sound. The differences in the top housing will influence the overall auditory character of each switch, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow providing a sharper sound on release and the Xinhai (Heavy) creating a more subdued experience. Hence, users looking for a more vibrant conclusion as they release the key may prefer the polycarbonate top, while those favoring a deeper, enveloping sound profile may gravitate towards the nylon top housing of the Xinhai. Ultimately, the interplay of these materials shapes the expressive potential of each switch, offering diverse experiences built upon a shared foundation.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a lower actuation force of 50 grams, allowing for lighter presses and potentially making it more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) requires a bit more strength to actuate at 55 grams, offering a stiffer feel that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Regarding bottom out forces, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow bottoms out at 67 grams, while the Xinhai (Heavy) bottoms out at a lighter 62.5 grams. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 requires more force to bottom out, it also has a lower actuation force, which may result in a different tactile experience during use. Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the lighter switch across both actuation and bottom out measurements, making it suitable for those who favor lighter keyboards, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) appeals to users who appreciate a firmer push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) provides a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a more traditional feel, appealing to those who prefer the tactile depth that comes with a more pronounced keypress. In contrast, the shorter travel of the Xinhai (Heavy) is likely to be favored by gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances are associated with enhanced speed and efficiency. While both switches offer unique benefits depending on user preference, ultimately the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the choice for those who appreciate a deeper, more substantial keystroke, while the Xinhai (Heavy) caters to those who prioritize swift actuation.
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 Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
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 evaluating the sound profiles of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches, notable differences emerge. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is characterized by a higher-pitched clacky sound, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience that many typists find pleasing. Its resonant quality contributes to an immersive typing atmosphere, ideal for those who appreciate a more lively sound without the bass-heavy thump of other switches. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a softer acoustic profile attributed to its unique PA12 top housing. While precise details on its sound are not elaborated, the combination with a POM stem suggests a distinctively crisp resonance, likely offering a more subtle yet refined auditory output compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow.
When it comes to physical feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out for its polished and creamy feel. This refined finish allows for a smooth typing experience, with reduced friction during key presses. The creamy texture enhances the sensation, making each keystroke feel almost effortless. In contrast, the specific feel of the Xinhai (Heavy) switch remains unknown. However, given each switch's linear classification, both are expected to provide a smooth typing experience, albeit potentially with differing nuances in tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch delivers a high-pitched, resonant sound paired with a polished and creamy feel, making it an exceptional choice for users who enjoy an engaging typing experience. Meanwhile, while the sound qualities of the Xinhai (Heavy) are less defined, it promises a unique, softer acoustic blend that could appeal to those seeking more subtlety. Both switches are linear in nature, which guarantees a smooth keypress, yet they cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. Ultimately, your choice may boil down to whether you prefer the vibrant resonance of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the understated sophistication of the Xinhai (Heavy).
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you seek affordability combined with a vibrant and engaging sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is hard to beat. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams provides a satisfying, bouncy feel while typing, making it an excellent option for both typing and gaming. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback, thanks to its high-pitched and resonant sound, which adds character to your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter touch combined with a more refined acoustic experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch may be the way to go. With a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, it offers a smoother typing experience due to its unique PA12 top housing, which leads to softer acoustics. The Xinhai's distinctively crisp sound is perfect for users who value precision and sophistication over sheer auditory excitement. Consider what aspects matter most to you in your typing experience—whether it's the lively feedback of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the elegant subtlety of the Xinhai (Heavy)—as you make your decision.
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