Gateron CJ vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The CJ switch offers a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. Typing on it is accompanied by higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for being the epitome of a classic budget switch. It is incredibly smooth and offers a satisfyingly thick resistance, resulting in a low, "thocky" sound. This makes it ideal for both gaming and typing, appealing to budget enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), it is evident that they have different top and bottom housing materials. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the CJ offers a clacky and higher-pitched sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) produces a duller and rounder sound due to the sound absorption properties of nylon.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches again have different materials. The CJ has a POM bottom housing, which contributes to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The sound profile is deeper and relatively more muted. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Like its top housing counterpart, the nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon plastic allows for better sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
It is important to note that the choice of housing materials impacts different aspects of the switch experience. In both switches, the bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. The CJ's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted bottom-out sound, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)'s nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the top housing material has a stronger influence on the sound when letting go of a key. The INK blend top housing of the CJ provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, while the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite their differences, the use of distinct housing materials in these switches ensures that users can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, both switches have a similar actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches, resulting in a consistent typing experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference between the two switches. The Gateron CJ linear switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro switch requires a slightly heavier force to fully press the key down compared to the CJ switch.
Considering the weight of the switches, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Gateron CJ linear switch more suitable as it has a lower bottom out force. This lighter switch allows for longer typing periods without causing fatigue, making it ideal for tasks such as bringing to work or long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel and enjoy a higher force requirement, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch may be the better choice. With a slightly heavier bottom out force, it provides a stronger push feel and can enhance the overall typing experience by providing a more satisfying feedback.
In conclusion, while both switches have the same actuation force, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Gateron CJ linear switch. The decision between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the CJ switch being lighter and the Milky Yellow Pro switch offering a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring you will get similar results with either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ offers a unique and enjoyable experience with its higher-pitched clacks. This gives it a distinct acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a low-pitched, "thocky" sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying. With its bass-heavy and mellow tone, it offers a different auditory experience compared to the CJ. Both switches excel in producing enjoyable sound profiles, but they have different characteristics. Depending on your personal preference, you can choose between the CJ's chirpy and higher-pitched sound or the Milky Yellow Pro's low-pitched, thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ offers an impossibly smooth push feel. It provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a buttery and textured typing sensation. With its smooth and fluid keystroke experience, it provides a seamless and effortless typing feel. Some users may prefer the subtle texture of the Milky Yellow Pro, while others may prefer the smoother feel of the CJ. Both switches offer enjoyable tactile experiences, but they have different qualities. Depending on your preferred typing sensation, you can choose between the CJ's mild and smooth feel or the Milky Yellow Pro's buttery and textured feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ provides a higher-pitched and chirpy sound, along with an impossibly smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro offers a low-pitched, thocky sound and a buttery, textured typing sensation. Both switches excel in their own aspects and can cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a higher-pitched, unique sound with a smooth push feel, the CJ is a great choice. If you prefer a low-pitched, thocky sound with a buttery and textured typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use.
If you are someone who appreciates unique acoustic qualities and a higher-pitched clack sound, the CJ switch may be the right choice for you. It offers a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and is described as chirpy, neutral, and low-pitched. The CJ switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel, making it enjoyable for typing tasks.
On the other hand, if you prefer a classic budget switch with a low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is a great option. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 62 grams, this switch embodies smoothness and buttery goodness. It is described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky, making it versatile for both gaming and typing purposes.
Consider your sound and feel preferences when making a decision. If you enjoy a chirpy and higher-pitched sound with a mild typing experience, go for the CJ switch. If you prefer a low-pitched, thocky sound with a buttery and textured keystroke experience, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch will be a suitable choice.
Ultimately, both switches offer excellent performance and are well-regarded within the mechanical keyboard community. Experimenting with different switches is always a good idea to find the one that suits your unique typing style and preferences.
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