Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the attributes of various options. In this case, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) stand out as two compelling linear switches, each catering to different preferences. The Glory Yellow is praised for its smooth keystroke and satisfying travel distance, providing a more weighted feel that many users enjoy for a robust typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is celebrated as a budget-friendly all-rounder, delivering a "thocky" sound profile and a buttery smoothness, making it a favorite among gamers and typists alike. While the Glory Yellow leans towards a heavier feel, the Milky Yellow Pro offers a softer, more tactile experience with its thicker resistance. Both switches offer unique advantages—with the Glory Yellow appealing to those who prefer a firmer keystroke and the Milky Yellow Pro being ideal for those looking for an enjoyable all-purpose switch. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches share a commonality in their housing materials that significantly influences their auditory and tactile characteristics. Both switches feature nylon for their top and bottom housings, which is recognized as a classic material in the switch-making world. The use of nylon contributes to generating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its inherent qualities as a softer plastic. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience regardless of which switch is being evaluated.
When comparing the sound profiles of the two switches, it is crucial to understand that the nylon material in both the top and bottom housings creates a synergistic effect that enhances the auditory experience. Since both switches utilize nylon, users can expect similar acoustic results when typing—characterized by richer sounds with minimized sharpness or clackiness. Whether typing on the Gateron Glory Yellow or the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), one can anticipate a typing experience that offers sound consistency largely influenced by the nylon housing, both on the bottom-out and release.
However, while the construction materials may be the same, it is important to consider how any potential differences in the design of the switches could influence their feel and response. Although both switches utilize nylon, the specific design aspects, such as stem shape or spring tension, could still lead to nuanced variations in how the switches perform. In this respect, while sound production might align closely due to the shared housing material, users may experience distinct typing sensations when engaging with each switch. Ultimately, the combination of nylon housing and the overall switch design will define the typing experience of both the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
Weight
The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch exhibit similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share an identical actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that users will experience similar ease of triggering keystrokes. However, the bottom out forces are different, with the Glory Yellow having an unknown bottom out force, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This indicates that, unlike the Glory Yellow, the Milky Yellow Pro requires a more substantial push to press the key all the way down, offering a heavier feel for users who prefer a more tactile experience. Consequently, the Gateron Glory Yellow can be considered the lighter option overall, ideal for those who favor prolonged use without fatigue, whereas the Milky Yellow Pro appeals to users seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this regard. This means that users can expect a similar feel and performance when pressing the keys, as the distance traveled from the top to the bottom of each switch is identical. Therefore, whether using the Glory Yellow or the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), typists and gamers alike can anticipate consistent key actuation across both switches due to their matching travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow 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 Yellow 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 Yellow switches have yet to be characterized, making it challenging to provide a direct comparison. However, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is notable for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile. This switch delivers a satisfyingly thocky noise that resonates deeply with each keystroke, enhancing the auditory experience of typing. For those who appreciate a rich sound reminiscent of a warm thud, the Milky Yellow Pro fulfills this desire, creating an enjoyable acoustic backdrop during use. It's important to note that the overall sound can vary based on the keyboard build and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow is similarly lacking specific descriptors; thus, we can focus on the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). This switch is renowned for providing a buttery smooth keystroke experience, allowing for an effortless and fluid typing sensation. It eliminates the scratchiness experienced in some budget switches, appealing to users who desire a seamless touch. The textured nature, while not definitively detailed for the Glory Yellow, could imply the Milky Yellow’s appeal through its smoothness, offsetting any potential friction or roughness typically associated with lower-end switches.
Ultimately, while the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches both present unique characteristics, the Milky Yellow Pro is well-regarded for its thocky sound and buttery feel, as well as its all-around versatility appealing to both gamers and typists alike. Without explicit details on the Glory Yellow's sound and feel, one should consider hands-on testing to ultimately determine which switch meets their preferences, especially if one values smooth keystrokes and satisfying acoustics in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch should hinge on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth keystroke and a travel distance that enhances your typing experience, the Glory Yellow allows for a satisfying glide, although the bottom-out force remains an unknown factor, which might appeal to those who enjoy a potentially lighter touch. On the other hand, if you're on a budget or seeking an all-purpose switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is your best bet. With its notably higher bottom-out force of 62 grams, you'll benefit from a satisfying resistance that many find appealing for both typing and gaming. Plus, its thocky sound profile creates a rich auditory feedback that can enhance your overall experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you lean towards a softer, more effortless feel with the Glory Yellow, or a robust, textured typing experience with the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
Mentioned in this article
