HMX 1989 vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) present two intriguing options within the linear switch category, each catering to unique preferences and use cases. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound profile, offering a tactile experience that feels substantial with every keystroke, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a satisfying auditory feedback while gaming or typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro stands as the quintessential budget switch, known for its exceptional smoothness and buttery feel. This switch is designed for versatility, easily transitioning from gaming to typing with a low-pitched sound and satisfying resistance, appealing particularly to budget-conscious enthusiasts who don't want to compromise on quality. Both switches have their merits, highlighting the importance of personal preference in selecting the right switch for your needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), it is evident that these switches employ different top housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic properties. The HMX 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate’s stiffness. This material allows for a clearer sound that resonates more distinctly when typing, making it particularly well-suited for situations where RGB lighting enhances aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro uses nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon absorbs sound waves, providing a more muted and rounded typing experience. These fundamental differences between the top housings ultimately lead to variations in the auditory feedback users can expect from each switch.
Both switches, however, utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which creates a layer of similarity in their construction. The nylon material in this context continues to produce that deeper, fuller sound profile that is characteristic of nylon switches, as it effectively absorbs sound and dampens vibrations. This shared bottom housing characteristic means that when you bottom out on either switch, the resulting impact will be comparably rounder and less sharp, irrespective of the top housing's influence. Here, the bottom housing’s material plays a crucial role in defining the overall tactile and auditory experience when typing, making both switches feel similarly satisfying from that standpoint.
However, the overall sound profile of each switch will vary due to the combination of materials. While the bottom housing serves as a fundamental characteristic of the switches' feel and bottom-out sound, the distinct properties of each top housing material must be taken into account for a comprehensive understanding of the end-user experience. The HMX 1989’s polycarbonate top enhances the perceived clarity when releasing a key, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro’s nylon top will dampen that clarity but provide a warm and rounded experience. Thus, the culmination of the materials used in both the top and bottom housings creates a unique auditory signature and typing sensation for each switch, demonstrating how the interplay of these materials can lead to both contrasts and similarities in user experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The HMX 1989 switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more comfortable typing experience, particularly during long sessions at work or while gaming. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. This additional weight can provide a more substantial feel, which may appeal to users who favor a stronger push. Overall, the HMX 1989 is the lighter option, offering a softer tactile experience, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro presents a heavier force that may enhance dexterity for those who prefer a firmer touch.
Travel distance
Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they provide an identical experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity ensures that users can expect similar tactile feedback and keypress feel when using either switch. Since their travel distances are equal, those seeking consistent performance in their keyboard will find that both switches deliver the same results in terms of actuation distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX 1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the 1989 for $3.29.
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its deep and thocky profile. Although specific descriptors are not provided, it's often contrasted with switches that produce higher-pitched sounds, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a muffled, rich acoustic experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is characterized by a bassy and low-pitched tone, embodying a satisfying thocky sound during key presses. This combination of a deep, rounded tone and low frequency allows it to deliver a rich auditory experience, particularly favored in both gaming environments and typing scenarios. Ultimately, both switches cater to those seeking that pleasing auditory feedback, though the 1989 may offer a more pronounced depth, depending on the accompanying setup and components.
Regarding feel, the 1989 switch stands out for its deep resistance, which translates to a tactile experience that's hearty and substantial. While exact details about its texture and smoothness aren’t specified, it can be inferred that it complements its sound profile by providing a firm yet enjoyable keystroke. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is celebrated for its buttery smoothness, allowing for a fluid and seamless typing experience. Its textured nature, while not overly scratchy, can provide a certain appeal to those who appreciate a hint of feedback without compromising smoothness. This combination makes the Milky Yellow a versatile option, able to perform well in varied typing contexts, while the 1989 promises a more robust, tactile engagement.
In summary, both the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offer unique benefits for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the 1989 excels with its deep, thocky sound and firm resistance, the Milky Yellow Pro provides a wonderfully smooth, buttery feel with satisfying, low-pitched acoustics. Choosing between these two ultimately comes down to personal preference: for a heavier, richer typing experience, the 1989 may be ideal; for those seeking a smooth all-rounder, the Milky Yellow Pro shines. Regardless of your choice, each switch delivers a compelling experience that can enhance both gaming and typing performance significantly.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and use case. If you enjoy a softer typing experience with a bottom-out force of 53 grams that feels slightly lighter, the HMX 1989 could be ideal for you. Its unique focus on a deeper "thocky" sound combined with its smooth keystrokes makes it particularly appealing for typing enthusiasts who appreciate a satisfying auditory feedback while working or gaming. Conversely, if you’re seeking a more balanced option, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams provides a robust yet still comfortable feel. Its buttery smoothness and thocky sound profile make it an excellent all-rounder, suitable for both gaming and typing sessions. This makes it a perfect choice if you're looking for a reliable switch that performs well in various scenarios without breaking the bank. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing preferences and the specific experiences you seek in a mechanical keyboard.
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