Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Silent Red. The Milky Yellow Pro is hailed for its smoothness, buttery feel, and satisfyingly thick resistance, making it versatile for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red offers a similar typing experience to the MX Red but with the added benefit of operating silently, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. While both switches have their unique strengths, such as the low, "thocky" sound of the Milky Yellow Pro and the muted sound profile of the MX Silent Red, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Overall, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches utilize nylon as the housing material for both the top and bottom of the switches. This means that users can expect a similar deep and fuller sound profile from both switches due to nylon's ability to absorb sound compared to harder plastics. The softness of nylon results in a duller and rounder sound, which can enhance the typing experience for users who enjoy a quieter keyboard.
Despite the similarities in housing material, there may be subtle differences in the overall sound and feel of the switches due to variations in design or construction. The way in which the nylon top and bottom housings are configured within each switch could impact the typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing may influence the sound when a key is released. Users may notice these nuances when comparing the two switches side by side, though the overall sound profile is likely to be quite similar.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches share nylon as their housing material, the specific design and construction of each switch may result in subtle differences in the typing experience. However, overall, users can expect a deep, fuller sound profile with a dull and round tone from both switches. Whether using the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) or the MX Silent Red, the nylon housing material will contribute to a quieter and more satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a softer sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, there are clear differences to consider. The Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the MX Silent Red's 45 grams, making the Cherry MX Silent Red the lighter option. However, the bottom out force of the Milky Yellow Pro is 62 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the MX Silent Red is unknown. This makes the Milky Yellow Pro the heavier option in terms of bottom out force. The actuation force of the Milky Yellow Pro falls in the medium range, while the MX Silent Red provides a lighter touch. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, with the Milky Yellow Pro catering to those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, while the MX Silent Red is more suited for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Cherry MX Silent Red the shorter of the two switches. The 0.3 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers may prefer the Cherry MX Silent Red for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker response times during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more tactile and deeper press may prefer the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer unique experiences, and the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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) provides a deep, bassy tone with a low-pitched thocky sound that is both satisfying and immersive during gaming or typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red offers a muted and thocky sound profile that minimizes noise, making it ideal for quiet environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Ultimately, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience with their unique sound characteristics, providing users with options based on their preferences for noise levels.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its buttery and textured keystrokes, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience that some users find incredibly satisfying. Conversely, the Cherry MX Silent Red is also described as having a textured feel, offering a subtle friction that may be preferred by some users seeking a different tactile experience. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing experience, with the slight variation in texture potentially determining user preference between the two.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different user preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro provides a deep and satisfying sound with a buttery feel, while the MX Silent Red offers a muted sound profile with a textured feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both, you can choose a switch that aligns with your personal preferences to enhance your typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, despite their differences, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that is sure to please newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch or the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a slightly heavier feel, the Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the classic characteristics of a linear switch, the MX Silent Red is a great choice. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or price point, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on what factors are most important to you in a keyboard switch.
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