HMX Cheese vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, accompanied by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is known for its budget-friendly nature and versatility, with a smooth and buttery feel that excels in both gaming and typing. While the Cheese is lighter and offers a unique typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro stands out for its all-purpose performance and affordability. 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material. This means that when typing on these switches, users can expect a similar deep and full sound profile due to the properties of nylon. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound quality that is characteristic of switches with nylon housing.
While both switches share the same housing material, the Cheese and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may differ in terms of design and construction. The specific shape and structure of the housing can affect the overall typing experience, such as the key feel and sound characteristics. It is essential to consider not only the housing material but also the overall build quality and design of the switches to determine which one better suits individual preferences and typing styles.
Overall, the similarities in housing material between the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) suggest that users can expect comparable typing experiences in terms of sound profile and feel. However, subtle differences in housing design and construction may lead to variations in key feel and sound characteristics between the two switches. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is the better choice for each individual user.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese is the lighter option. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. The Cheese provides a lighter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a slightly heavier feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on personal preference, with the actuation and bottom out forces playing a significant role in determining the typing experience for the user.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Cheese switch will require slightly less distance for actuation compared to the Milky Yellow Pro switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Cheese switch due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to the preferences of different users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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
The HMX Cheese linear switch is praised for its unique sound signature, characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a low, "thocky" sound that is bassy, low-pitched, and provides a deep, rich sound profile. When it comes to feel, the Cheese switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, whereas the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery and providing a textured keystroke experience. Overall, both switches offer a different auditory and tactile experience, catering to different preferences. Whether you choose the Cheese or Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), you can expect a high-quality switch that delivers reliable performance and excellent value for your typing or gaming needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are certain factors to consider. If you prioritize a light actuation force, a unique clacky sound profile, and an ultra-smooth typing experience, then the HMX Cheese switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force, a buttery smooth feel, and a versatile switch suitable for both gaming and typing, then the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch would be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and what attributes matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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