Gateron Mars vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Mars and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) present two compelling options for linear switch enthusiasts, but each caters to different preferences. The Gateron Mars is known for its innovative design, featuring a POK stem and a unique housing blend of Nylon and POM, which contributes to a distinct feel and performance that many typists and gamers find appealing. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro stands out as a classic budget switch, offering a smooth, buttery actuation combined with a low, "thocky" sound that appeals to those who appreciate a satisfying auditory feedback while maintaining excellent versatility for both gaming and typing. While the Mars pivots on its innovative construction for a unique tactile experience, the Milky Yellow Pro is celebrated for its reliability and affordability, making it a favorite among budget-conscious keyboard enthusiasts. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mars and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), a distinct similarity can be found in their top housing. Both switches utilize nylon for their top enclosure, which is heralded for its acoustic properties. This shared material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile—an auditory characteristic derived from nylon’s softness, which allows it to absorb sound better than harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a muted, rounder sound when typing on either switch, reinforcing the notion that both keyboards will deliver similar auditory experiences during use.
However, while the top housings of the Gateron Mars and Milky Yellow Pro share the same material, their bottom housings diverge significantly. The Gateron Mars features a POM bottom housing, which is known for producing a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted spectrum. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro opts for a nylon bottom housing, reflecting similar qualities to its top housing but likely resulting in a differentiation in sound characteristics when bottoming out. This distinction means that the tactile and auditory responses will differ based on the materials used in the lower portion of these switches, illustrating how the bottom housing can influence the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the differences in the bottom housing materials will create a varied sound experience even as the top housing ensures a consistent auditory signature between the two models. The Gateron Mars's POM bottom may offer a more nuanced, fulfilling sound on bottom-out compared to the more uniform nylon bottom of the Milky Yellow Pro. Consequently, while users may enjoy similar sound profiles when releasing keys thanks to the nylon top, the nuanced distinctions in bottom housings will influence how each switch feels and sounds when pressed down. Thus, enthusiasts should consider these elements when choosing between the two, as the selection ultimately hinges on personal preference for sound and tactility characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we observe distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which influence the overall typing experience. The Mars switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to press down and ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience during extended sessions. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial and firm keystroke. Additionally, while the bottom out force for the Mars switch remains unknown, the Milky Yellow Pro features a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a noticeable resistance when pressing all the way down. This means users of the Milky Yellow Pro will experience a more pronounced feedback compared to the Mars, appealing to those who favor a stronger tactile experience. Ultimately, the Gateron Mars is the lighter option, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) presents a heavier feel, offering unique considerations for different types of users.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mars linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Mars switch, being the shorter of the two, offers a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers looking for quick keypresses. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro provides a fuller depth thanks to its 4 mm travel distance, which some users might find more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions or a more tactile experience. Thus, if you prefer quicker actuation, the Mars would be the better choice, whereas the Milky Yellow Pro would suit those who appreciate a more substantial travel feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron Mars switch is largely unspecified, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison to the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). However, the Milky Yellow Pro is well-regarded for its low-pitched, thocky sound, offering a rich, bass-heavy auditory experience. This deeper tone is characterized by a satisfying "thock" on key presses, which many users find enjoyable, especially in both gaming and typing contexts. The sound is a result of various factors, including the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, so individual experiences may vary.
When discussing the feel of each switch, the Gateron Mars lacks specific descriptors, leaving a gap in direct comparison. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro is celebrated for its buttery smoothness, providing a fluid and seamless typing experience that many users appreciate. It’s designed to eliminate friction during key presses, offering a comfort that is ideal for both long typing sessions and fast-paced gaming. The Milky Yellow Pro’s textured feel can also be noted, catering to users who prefer some tactile feedback while typing, although the detailing on Mars is not defined.
In summary, while the Gateron Mars may provide a unique experience yet to be detailed, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) stands out for its impressive sound characteristics and smooth, satisfying feel. For newcomers, if you prioritize a deep, thocky sound and buttery typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro could serve you well as an all-around switch. If you are open to exploring the Mars switch, you may find that it offers similarly enjoyable attributes, although the specifics remain unknown. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, so personal experience will play a crucial role in determining which one suits you best.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) comes down to your specific preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a versatile switch that delivers a balanced experience in both gaming and typing, the Milky Yellow Pro is an excellent choice. Its 62 grams of bottom out force feels comfortable for prolonged typing sessions and offers a satisfying thocky sound that many budget enthusiasts adore. This all-rounder excels in applications requiring a smooth and buttery keystroke, making it suitable for varied typing styles. However, if you're searching for something more unique and innovative, the Gateron Mars may appeal to you. Its proprietary design combines durability with an unknown bottom out force, which might cater to those who seek a switch that feels and performs differently than more traditional options. The Mars also has yet to provide specific audio or tactile feedback details, allowing for an element of mystery and personalization in your typing experience. Ultimately, it boils down to whether you desire the familiar richness of the Milky Yellow Pro or the experimental allure of the Mars when selecting your switch.
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