Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) are two mechanical keyboard switches with their unique features and characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its budget-friendly excellence and offers a polished and high-pitched sound profile, delivering a fairly bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is the epitome of a classic budget switch, providing smoothness and buttery goodness. It boasts a low, "thocky" sound and a satisfyingly thick resistance, making it ideal for both gaming and typing. Both switches excel in their own right, providing different sound profiles and typing experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
POM
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
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness. This stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in material creates distinct sound experiences when pressing down on the keys or releasing them.
Both switches also have different bottom housings, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizing nylon and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) also using nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. It absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches share similarities in terms of their bottom-out sound and feel due to the similar nylon bottom housing.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in their housing materials, particularly in the top housing. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing provides a clearer and resonant sound profile, emphasizing a sharper and crisper sound when releasing keys. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded sound when releasing keys. However, both switches share a commonality in their nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound when typing on the keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is important to consider their weight. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the lighter option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, making it medium in weight. Both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams, ensuring a consistent minimum force required to trigger a keystroke. Therefore, those seeking similar results can expect a similar actuation feel from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offering a heavier bottom out force for those desiring a more substantial typing experience, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a slightly lighter option.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow 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, both switches will travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the feeling and experience when using these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch offers a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a clean and sharp sound that is more on the crisp side. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch provides a low-pitched and "thocky" sound. This switch produces a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling a deep thud or a soft knock. It offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch offers a polished and creamy typing experience. This switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This smoothness can be attributed to either the materials used or the factory lube applied to the switch. When typing on these switches, you can expect a silky sensation, as if your fingers effortlessly melt into each keystroke. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch provides a buttery and textured typing experience. This switch offers a seamless and uniform keystroke sensation that feels smooth and fluid. However, some users might prefer a subtle texture or noticeable friction when pressing the keys, while others prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is known for its higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a polished, creamy feel. It excels as a budget-friendly linear switch and offers a fairly bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is recognized for its low-pitched thocky sound and buttery, textured feel. It is a versatile switch suitable for both gaming and typing. Both switches provide excellent options for budget-conscious enthusiasts, and while they differ in sound and feel, they both deliver satisfying results. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched clacky sound with a polished typing experience or a low-pitched thocky sound with a buttery and textured feel, these Gateron switches offer great value for their price.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs.
If you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the switch for you. It offers a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a bassy and thocky tone, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the better choice. It offers a low-pitched sound profile that is satisfying and reminiscent of a deep "thud" or soft "knock".
In terms of feel, if you prioritize a polished and creamy typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a suitable option. It provides a sleek and refined finish, resulting in a smooth and buttery sensation. On the contrary, if you prefer a buttery and textured feel that provides a seamless and effortless keystroke experience, then the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the switch to consider.
Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow excels in budget-friendly excellence, offering a clacky sound profile and a bouncy type feel. It is a great choice for those seeking a budget linear switch with a higher-pitched sound and polished feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) stands out as a classic budget switch that demonstrates smoothness, buttery goodness, and a satisfyingly thick resistance. With its low, "thocky" sound and all-purpose performance, it is ideal for both gaming and typing. Ultimately, understanding your sound and feel preferences will guide you towards the switch that best suits your needs.