Gateron Glory Red vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red 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, the Gateron Glory Red and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) present two intriguing options within the linear category. The Glory Red switches are renowned for their lighter feel, offering a smooth keystroke with a comfortable travel distance that caters well to those seeking an enjoyable typing experience. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro delivers a rich tactile experience, characterized by its "thocky" sound profile and satisfyingly thick resistance, making it an ideal choice for both gaming and everyday typing tasks. While the Glory Red is well-suited for users who prefer a lighter switch that emphasizes speed and responsiveness, the Milky Yellow Pro stands out as a versatile all-rounder that provides a budget-friendly balance of performance and satisfaction. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POK
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Red and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which is a notable similarity between the two switches. Nylon is recognized for its softer properties compared to harder plastics, which allows it to absorb sound more effectively. This shared characteristic results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, enhancing the overall typing experience. Whether you choose the Glory Red or the Milky Yellow Pro, the use of nylon ensures that both switches produce a duller and rounder sound, contributing to a satisfying audio feedback during use.
While both switches capitalize on nylon housing materials, their sound qualities may vary based on the intended design and characteristics of each switch. The top housing plays a critical role in the acoustic experience when releasing a key, while the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out feel and sound when a key is pressed down. Thus, even though they are made from the same material, the different designs and spring mechanisms of the Glory Red and Milky Yellow Pro can lead to distinct typing experiences. Users who prioritize sound quality may find that both switches offer enjoyable auditory feedback, yet the tactile response could lead to preferences for one over the other.
In combining these nylon housings, both the Glory Red and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provide users with unique yet comparable typing experiences. The shared use of nylon contributes to their similar sound profiles, with users likely enjoying deeper, fuller audio feedback from both switches. The critical factor differentiating them largely rests on the design and tuning of each switch, ultimately affecting the key feel and response. Thus, while they are rooted in the same material, the resulting typing experience from each switch is nuanced, allowing for personal preference to steer the choice between the two.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out characteristics. The Glory Red switch requires an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter compared to the Milky Yellow Pro, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. This difference means that the Glory Red may be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. However, the bottom out force of the Glory Red is currently unknown, while the Milky Yellow Pro features a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a firmer feel when pressing the key down completely. This heavier bottom out force might appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Overall, if you prioritize a softer touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Gateron Glory Red is the better option, while the Milky Yellow Pro may be preferable for those who appreciate a more pronounced push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we find distinct differences that cater to varying preferences among users. The Glory Red features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Glory Red the shorter option, providing quicker actuation that is ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro offers a deeper feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, for gamers prioritizing speed, the shorter travel distance of the Glory Red might be more appealing, while those who enjoy a heartier depth may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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 Gateron Glory Red linear switch has not been explicitly described in the provided details, leaving some ambiguity about its acoustic profile. However, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is noted for its deep, thocky sound. This low-pitched, bassy characteristic offers a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke, often described as a rich "thud" or "knock" that enhances the overall typing satisfaction. It's essential to remember that the sound produced by any switch can vary considerably based on the keyboard case and keycap materials used, leading to a potentially different experience even with the same switch.
When comparing the feel of the two switches, the Gateron Glory Red also lacks specific descriptors and therefore presents an unknown quality in this regard. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is celebrated for its buttery smoothness that makes typing effortless. This switch offers a seamless keystroke experience, complemented by its textured feel, which provides just the right amount of friction for those who appreciate tactile feedback. Such qualities contribute to a uniform and pleasurable typing sensation, appealing especially to users who engage in both gaming and typing tasks.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Glory Red linear switch remains uncertain in its sound and feel characteristics, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) clearly stands out for its thocky sound and buttery smoothness. If you favor a rich auditory experience along with an enjoyable typing sensation, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is an excellent choice, especially for budget-conscious enthusiasts. Understanding these switches’ attributes can guide newcomers in selecting the right linear switch to suit their preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Glory Red and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches, your preferences and intended use will play a significant role. If you are looking for a buttery smooth typing experience with a lighter keystroke, the Glory Red switches may be your best bet, as they provide a comfortable feel and enjoyable travel distance, making them well-suited for extended typing sessions. However, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback with satisfying resistance, along with a thocky sound profile that adds richness to your typing experience, you might find the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro to be the better option. Their medium actuation force and all-around versatility make them ideal for both gaming and typing, perfectly catering to budget enthusiasts who appreciate solid performance without breaking the bank. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your tactile and auditory preferences, as well as how you plan to use your keyboard, whether for casual typing or competitive gaming.
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