Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Cherry MX Orange stand out as two compelling options, each catering to different preferences and use cases. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro, renowned for its buttery smoothness and deep, thocky sound, offers an outstanding tactile experience that is often sought by budget-conscious enthusiasts. This versatile linear switch is ideal for both gaming and typing, delivering a satisfying resistance that enhances performance across all tasks. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches, reissued from the original designs, bring a nostalgic appeal alongside modern enhancements. These switches tend to offer a quieter operation while still providing a robust and reliable performance. Ultimately, your choice between the two may hinge on whether you prioritize a textured, tactile feel or a classic, polished experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Orange, it becomes evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice signifies that both switches are crafted with a classic plastic known for providing a richer auditory experience. Given that nylon is a softer plastic compared to many alternatives, it tends to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Consequently, users of both switches can expect a similar auditory experience when typing, experiencing the characteristic dampened and rounded sound that nylon brings to mechanical switches.
Despite sharing the same housing material, there are subtle distinctions in the performance characteristics offered by the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro and the Cherry MX Orange. If the switches had different materials for their top and bottom housings, the sound and feel of each switch when pressed and released would differ significantly. However, since both switches employ nylon for their entire housing, the impact of the material properties will be consistent throughout. The sensation upon bottoming out and releasing each switch will be influenced evenly by the nylon used, delivering that desirable plush feedback that typists often seek. Therefore, users should feel confident that both switches will provide a similarly satisfying tactile and auditory experience.
Moreover, the use of nylon in both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro and Cherry MX Orange does not merely enhance acoustic properties but also contributes to the overall durability and performance of the switches. The consistent use of nylon ensures that users will benefit from a smooth keystroke with slight resistance, allowing for a more engaging typing experience over long durations. As such, while there might be broader differences in feel, actuation force, or design philosophy between the two models, the commonality in their housing materials allows for a high level of similarity in sound profile and keypress response, promising enjoyable usage for both gaming and typing tasks.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch differ in their actuation forces, with the Milky Yellow Pro requiring a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the 55 grams of the MX Orange. This distinction suggests that users who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions may gravitate towards the Milky Yellow Pro, finding it more comfortable over extended use. In terms of bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro has a measurable bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a medium resistance when the switch is fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the MX Orange is unknown, making it challenging to evaluate its full depth of resistance when the key is bottomed out. Overall, while the Milky Yellow Pro is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, the MX Orange's heavier actuation force may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, though its overall feel cannot be fully assessed without the bottom out information.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they offer the same amount of distance when pressed down. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users can expect a comparable feel and typing experience between the two switches, as both will travel the same distance from the top to the bottom when activated. Consequently, if you're accustomed to one switch, transitioning to the other should yield familiar results in terms of key response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) boasts a rich and deeper auditory profile. Its “thocky” nature delivers a satisfying, low-pitched tone when a key is pressed, offering a delightful auditory feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. This “thocky” sound, characterized by its bassy elements, can evoke the deep, resonant quality of a gentle thump, making it a joy to type on. On the other hand, details regarding the sound profile of the Cherry MX Orange remain unknown, leaving us without a direct comparison. However, users can generally expect that a Cherry switch may produce a more standard sound typical of linear switches.
When considering feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) presents a wonderfully buttery typing experience. The smoothness of its keystrokes creates an effortless typing sensation that many enthusiasts seek in their keyboards. This switch offers a seamless transition with each press, which can enhance productivity and enjoyment during intense gaming sessions or long typing tasks. The mention of it being textured adds an interesting dimension, suggesting a potential variability in the user experience. In contrast, details about the tactile feel or texture of the Cherry MX Orange switch are not provided, resulting in another unknown in this comparison.
In summary, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) presents itself as a budget-friendly champion with a thocky sound and a buttery feel, making it an appealing choice for both gaming and typing. While the sound and feel qualities of the Cherry MX Orange switches remain unspecified, it stands to reason that they may offer a more traditional linear experience. For users seeking a smoother and more resonant typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro is likely to deliver satisfaction, while the Cherry MX Orange may provide a more standard, albeit possibly less distinct, alternative. If you prioritize sound and feel, the Milky Yellow Pro is your switch; otherwise, you might achieve a similarly satisfying experience with a consistent linear Cherry switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Orange primarily hinges on your specific preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and intended use. If you are seeking a smooth and buttery keystroke that offers a "thocky" sound, the Milky Yellow Pro is your best bet. Its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams provides a satisfying resistance, making it ideal for both gaming and typing scenarios, especially if you appreciate a deeper, bassier sound. This switch shines for users who want a reliable, all-around performer without breaking the bank. Conversely, if you have a penchant for the classic and are looking for a switch that meets the demands of modern gaming and typing while incorporating some heritage quality, the Cherry MX Orange may be the switch for you. Although the exact bottom-out force remains unspecified, these switches carry a reputation for their robust build and the enhanced feel of the MX2A generation. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the mix of comfort, sound, and style that aligns with your keyboard preferences and typing habits.
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