Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking to choose between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Yellow Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Milky Red Pro is renowned for its smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, offering a buttery smooth feel and a low-pitched “thock” sound. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch by Outemu is favored for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, ideal for those seeking speediness and responsiveness. While the Milky Red Pro is known for its 'Buttery', 'Bassy', and 'Thocky' characteristics, the Yellow Silver is classified as 'Neutral'. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Yellow Silver, one major difference lies in their top housings. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Yellow Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction in material results in a noticeable difference in the auditory experience of typing on these switches.
On the other hand, both the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Yellow Silver share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that the typing experience in terms of sound may not vary significantly between these two switches. However, the top housing material variations offer contrasting sound profiles, with the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the clearer and resonant sound of the polycarbonate top housing of the Yellow Silver.
Overall, the choice of housing material for a switch impacts not only the sound produced but also the feel during typing. The split between the bottom and top housings in switches like the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Yellow Silver means that different qualities of sound and tactile feedback are influenced by each part. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing the key. Thus, understanding the characteristics of each housing material is crucial in selecting a switch that aligns with individual preferences for typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro has a lighter touch at 52 grams compared to the Yellow Silver's 55 grams. The Milky Red Pro offers a slightly lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver provides a slightly heavier push feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall under the category of medium-light in terms of weight, providing a balance between ease of typing and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm. As a result, pressing down on keys with either switch will offer a similar tactile experience in terms of distance traveled. This means that users can expect consistent feedback and performance regardless of which switch they choose. Both switches offer the same level of key travel, giving users a comfortable typing experience with a familiar feel. Therefore, the travel distance of each switch is identical, making the decision between the two switches based on other factors such as actuation force and overall feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
The Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is characterized by a deep and rich bassy tone, resulting in a satisfying thocky sound with low-pitched notes. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, offering a moderate and non-intrusive auditory experience that is suitable for various typing preferences. When it comes to feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch provides a buttery smooth keystroke, ensuring a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Unfortunately, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch. Overall, if you prefer a smoother and more bass-heavy typing experience, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch would be the ideal choice, while the Outemu Yellow Silver switch offers a neutral sound profile that is versatile and appealing to a broad range of users. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience, each catering to different preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a smooth typing experience and a low-pitched, buttery sound profile, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize speediness and responsiveness, favoring a lighter actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch may be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing or gaming experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and enjoy your mechanical keyboard journey.
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