HMX Macchiato vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Macchiato and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) highlights the diverse landscape of linear switches tailored for different user preferences. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it an excellent option for those who value a more refined auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro stands out as a quintessential budget switch, known for its buttery smoothness and deep, "thocky" sound, which offers a gratifying tactile feel for both gaming and typing scenarios. While the Macchiato provides a unique auditory pleasure that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a premium feel, the Milky Yellow Pro serves as a solid, all-rounder switch ideal for budget-conscious users who don’t want to compromise on performance. 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
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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 HMX Macchiato and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) share a significant similarity in their housing materials, as both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housing. This commonality in material leads to a comparable typing experience, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent properties of nylon, being a softer plastic, contribute to the acoustic characteristics of both switches. When typing on either the Macchiato or the Milky Yellow Pro, users will note that the sound produced is duller and rounder, which is a direct result of nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics.
Although the materials for both switches are the same, the combination of sound qualities from the top and bottom housings in each switch can produce slight differences in feel and acoustic response. With both the HMX Macchiato and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro featuring nylon at both the top and bottom, users can expect a sound profile that is quite similar across the board. However, due to the way switches are engineered, the top housing typically influences the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel. As both switches are constructed with nylon, the specific acoustic characteristics will naturally merge in their performance, but nuances may still be experienced depending on design variations in the switch itself.
In conclusion, the similarities between the HMX Macchiato and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro in terms of housing materials provide a strong foundation for a similar typing experience. Both switches capitalize on the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon, resulting in a richer sound profile. While any distinctions in felt feedback may arise from the unique engineering choices made for each switch, the effects of using nylon as a housing material ensure that users will enjoy a comparable auditory experience when typing on either option. This leads to a typing sensation that is not only consistent in its sound characteristics but also satisfying in its tactile response.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Macchiato features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, compared to the heavier 50 grams of the Milky Yellow Pro, making the Macchiato potentially more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, such as during long work sessions or gaming marathons. Additionally, the Macchiato has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is again lighter than the KS-3's bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that not only does the Macchiato require less force to trigger a keystroke, but it also bottoms out with less resistance, making it an appealing choice for users who favor a softer touch. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro, with its medium actuation and bottom out forces, offers a more substantial feel that may be preferred by users seeking a firmer typing experience. Overall, if comfort and ease of use are priorities, the HMX Macchiato linear switch would be the better option, while those who appreciate a more weighted feedback might lean towards the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
Travel distance
Both the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch feature identical travel distances of 4 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel and typing experience when pressing down on the keys equipped with either switch. As a result, the actuation and key response will be similar, allowing for a consistent performance whether one is using the Macchiato or the Milky Yellow Pro. Therefore, since both switches have the same travel distance, users can anticipate similar results in terms of key feel and behavior.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato for $2.99.
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 HMX Macchiato switch produces a bright and pleasant auditory signature that enhances the typing experience with a light and airy quality. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a significantly deeper and more resonant audio profile characterized as "thocky." This switch resonates with a low-pitched, bassy tone, adding a satisfying richness to each keystroke. While the Macchiato's sound could be described as more engaging and lively, the Milky Yellow Pro provides that traditional, solid thock favored by many enthusiasts, particularly for gaming scenarios. Both switches will behave differently based on the keyboard build and keycaps used, but users can expect distinct auditory experiences from each.
In terms of feel, the HMX Macchiato excels with its silky smooth operation, which creates a typing experience free of friction. This seamless motion is particularly appealing for users who enjoy a fluid keystroke without interruptions. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro, while also buttery in its smoothness, introduces a more pronounced resistance throughout the keystroke, creating a satisfying tactile sensation. However, it may also present a slight texture that could be less appealing to those who favor a completely smooth feel. Users will find that the Macchiato leans towards effortless key presses, whereas the Milky Yellow Pro combines smoothness with a thicker resistance that some may prefer for a more grounded and substantial feel during typing.
Overall, both switches offer unique advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The HMX Macchiato is ideal for those seeking a bright sound profile and a smooth, seamless feel, making it great for extended typing sessions. Meanwhile, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro stands out for its thocky auditory feedback and satisfying resistance, appealing to both gamers and typists who appreciate a more robust response. Ultimately, whether you gravitate towards the airy clarity of the Macchiato or the deep, rich tones of the Milky Yellow Pro, both switches can deliver an enjoyable typing experience, albeit with distinctly different characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a lightweight typing experience and enjoy a silky smooth feel with a brighter sound profile, the Macchiato is the ideal option for you. It's particularly suited for those who spend long hours typing or who simply enjoy a less resistant key press. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a versatile switch that balances both gaming and typing without breaking the bank, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom-out force offers a thicker, more satisfying resistance along with a deep, thocky sound that many enthusiasts adore. In environments where you want to make a bit more noise and feel a tactile engagement without being overly exertive, this switch shines. Thus, weigh your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience carefully to determine which switch would best enhance your mechanical keyboard journey.
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