Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Red mechanical keyboard switches, you are faced with a decision between two exceptional linear switches. The Milky Yellow Pro is celebrated for its smoothness, buttery feel, and low, "thocky" sound, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red offers a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. While both switches have their unique qualities and strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
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
In terms of housing materials, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Red utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches made with this material, as it is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is preferred by many users. With both switches using nylon for their housings, users can expect similar sound profiles and tactile feedback when typing.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings, there may be slight differences in the overall typing experience due to other factors such as the internal components or design of the switches. The qualities of the nylon housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. Users may notice subtle differences in sound and feel between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Red, despite both switches using the same housing material.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Red may come down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound. Both switches offer a deep and full sound profile due to the nylon housing material, but other factors such as actuation force and travel distance may also play a role in determining which switch is preferred by individual users. Ultimately, both switches are well-regarded in the mechanical keyboard community for their quality housing materials and offer a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that the Gateron switch is slightly heavier. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) requires 50 grams of force to actuate a keystroke, whereas the MX Red needs only 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) requires 62 grams, while the MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cherry MX Red switch may be more suitable, as it requires less force to actuate. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may be the better option due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Cherry MX Red linear switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The 4 mm travel distance of both switches means that users will experience a similar keypress feel and actuation point on each switch. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get comparable results in terms of keypress feedback and typing experience. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect consistent keypress performance regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch also offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, delivering a satisfying auditory depth that adds to the overall typing experience. Both switches excel in creating a pleasing sound that enhances the tactile feedback during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is praised for its buttery and textured qualities, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a uniform typing sensation. In comparison, the MX Red switch is described as textured, providing users with a subtle friction that can be preferred by some while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Despite this difference, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and consistent typing feel that enhances overall performance.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Cherry MX Red linear switches each bring their own unique sound and feel characteristics to the table. While the Milky Yellow Pro is noted for its bassy sound profile and buttery feel, the MX Red offers a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound. Both switches are popular choices for a reason, as they excel in providing a satisfying typing experience for users whether they are typing for work or gaming. In the end, choosing between these two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each individual user is looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Red linear switches, you should choose the Milky Yellow Pro if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a smooth and buttery typing experience, and a low, thocky sound profile. This switch is versatile for both gaming and typing, making it a great all-around option for budget-conscious enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel and a deeper sound profile, along with a bottom out force of None grams, then the Cherry MX Red may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for feel, sound, and typing experience.
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