Gateron CM vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The CM switch breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, offering a richer and deeper sound signature. With an impeccable factory lube job, these switches provide an effortlessly smooth typing experience that feels like gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the CM switch features a lengthened, dual-staged spring, which contributes to a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing. Known for its smoothness and buttery goodness, this low-pitched switch produces a satisfyingly thick resistance, resulting in a pleasing "thocky" sound. As an all-purpose switch, the Milky Yellow Pro is highly regarded by budget enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both use nylon as their top and bottom housing material. This means that they will have similar characteristics and properties when it comes to sound profile and typing experience. Nylon is known to be a softer plastic compared to harder materials, which allows it to absorb more sound. As a result, both switches will produce a deeper and fuller sound when pressed, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. Whether you're using the CM or the Milky Yellow Pro, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, it's important to note that if the top and bottom housings are different for a specific switch, the qualities of each housing material will be divided. In this case, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. When you press down on the switch, you will primarily feel the characteristics of the bottom housing material. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound produced when you release a key. Therefore, if the CM and Milky Yellow Pro have different bottom housings, it may result in minor variations in the typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the Gateron CM and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) share the same housing material, nylon, which contributes to their similar sound profiles and typing experiences. Whether you choose one over the other, you can expect a deeper and fuller sound when typing, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. However, slight differences may arise if the top and bottom housings are not the same, as the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound during key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The CM switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro requires 50 grams to activate. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly lighter actuation force compared to the CM switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches have relatively similar results. The CM switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams. Overall, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switch can be considered slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, while both switches provide a similar bottom out force. This gives users the option to choose between a slightly lighter keystroke with the Milky Yellow Pro or a slightly heavier feel with the CM switch, depending on their preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow Pro has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the CM has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The 4.0 mm distance of the Milky Yellow Pro is more in line with the traditional travel distance, while the CM falls on the shallower end of the spectrum with 3.6 mm. However, it is worth noting that shorter travel distances have gained popularity recently, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. For these individuals, the CM switch with its shorter travel distance would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance like the Milky Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the decision of which switch to choose comes down to personal preference - if responsiveness is key, the CM switch would be ideal, but if a deeper feel is preferred, the Milky Yellow Pro would be the better option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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, both the Gateron CM and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches share similar qualities. They both offer a deep and rich sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, they both have a satisfying "thocky" sound, producing a deep and satisfying thud or knock when the key is pressed and released. The CM switches are also described as having a low-pitched tone, which adds to their bass-heavy and mellow sound. Similarly, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches are also low-pitched, contributing to their deep and rich sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Therefore, while the sound of these two switches may have slight differences, they are likely to provide similar results when it comes to deep, rich, and satisfying sound.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron CM and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. The CM switches are described as "buttery," providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation with each keystroke. With their full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, these switches deliver a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the CM switches are also said to have a creamy and frictionless feel, like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches are also described as "buttery," offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. However, some users may notice a subtle texture or slight friction with these switches, which can be preferred by some and disliked by others who prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Overall, both switches provide a satisfying and enjoyable feel, with slight differences in texture.
Taking all the available information into consideration, both the Gateron CM and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches offer subjective qualities that are highly regarded by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. In terms of sound, they produce a deep and rich "thocky" sound, with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. While there may be slight nuances between the two, they are likely to provide similar sound profiles. In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, described as "buttery." The CM switches have a polished and creamy feel, with reduced friction and effortless key travel, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches may have a subtle texture or slight friction that some users may prefer. Overall, whether you choose the CM or the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), you can expect a high-quality linear switch experience that excels in both gaming and typing, making them suitable for various purposes and a go-to option for budget enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch with its 62 grams force is a good choice. This switch is known for its smoothness and buttery goodness, making it suitable for both gaming and typing. Its low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance add to its appeal as an all-purpose switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron CM linear switch with its 63.5 grams force might be more suitable. The CM switch offers a bouncy typing experience with its lengthened, dual-staged spring. It is known for its rich and deep sound signature, characterized by a bassy and thocky profile. Additionally, the CM switch boasts a full nylon housing and an impeccable factory lube job, ensuring a smooth and polished typing journey. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your preference for bottom out force, smoothness, and sound profile. Regardless of your decision, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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