Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavier 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, appealing to those who desire a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus boasts a lighter 50g bottom-out force and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more substantial and clacky typing experience, the HMX Lotus provides a lighter and more vibrant sensation. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the HMX Lotus play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of these switches. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, resulting in a pointed and high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Lotus features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a sharper and thinner sound, compared to the Lotus's rounder and duller sound.
In terms of bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black employs a POM material that creates a unique and pleasing deeper sound profile. Conversely, the Lotus utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. With both switches incorporating different bottom housing materials, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will vary. The G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing results in a relatively more muted sound, while the Lotus's nylon bottom housing adds to the switch's overall deeper sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and HMX Lotus switches significantly influences their sound profiles. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a sharper and thinner sound with its INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing, the Lotus provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top and bottom housings. Both switches deliver unique typing experiences based on the material composition of their housings, ultimately catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of weight. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Lotus features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black provides a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, while the Lotus offers a lighter touch, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lotus, making it the slightly longer option. However, both switches fall within a reasonable range of travel distance and should provide a satisfactory typing experience for most users. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of whether you prefer a slightly longer or slightly shorter travel distance. Both switches offer a good balance between depth and responsiveness, so you can expect similar results regardless of which one you choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
The HMX Lotus comes in at $3.49 per 10 switches.
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 Black switch is known for its clacky and slightly subdued sound profile, providing a crisp and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, the sound profile of the HMX Lotus linear switch is unknown. Both switches require proper consideration of other factors like board and keycaps to enhance or modify the sound produced.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a creamy and silky typing experience, allowing for smooth and effortless keystrokes. With a medium-heavy actuation force, it provides a balanced typing feel that is satisfying for those who prefer a more substantial key press. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch is not detailed, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
Overall, while the sound and feel of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch are well-documented and cater to a specific typing preference, the qualities of the HMX Lotus linear switch are somewhat unknown. However, based on the available information, it can be inferred that both switches may offer similar results in terms of overall typing experience, with potential differences in sound profile and actuation force. It's important for newcomers to consider their individual preferences for sound and feel when deciding between these two switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the HMX Lotus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier and more substantive feel with a medium-high pitch sound, then the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch with a bouncy feel and bright, resonant sound, then the Lotus switch from HMX would be a better fit. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired level of resistance when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer high quality and durability, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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