Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Quinn are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer different experiences for users. The Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch that is known for its smoothness and buttery feel. With a low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, it excels in both gaming and typing, making it an all-purpose switch that is highly regarded by budget enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Quinn is a tactile switch that offers a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. The specially designed nylon housings of the Quinn switches contribute to a rich and immersive typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that may cater to different preferences. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Gateron Quinn both use nylon as their top and bottom housing material. This means that they share similar characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Typing on switches that utilize nylon housing will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to those made of harder plastics. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Quinn switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ for a specific switch, the qualities brought by each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom. When pressing down a key, the characteristics of the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing will play a more significant role in the sound produced. This difference in the distribution of housing material qualities might result in slight variations in the typing experience between the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Quinn switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Gateron Quinn switches both feature nylon top and bottom housing, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. While they share similarities in terms of sound and feel, there might be minor differences in the typing experience due to potential variations in the distribution of the housing material's qualities. Nevertheless, users can expect to achieve comparable results when using either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the Quinn has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be a suitable choice. With its lower actuation force, it allows for effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Quinn offers a slightly heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for individuals who prefer a bit more resistance. This added weight can also prevent accidental key presses.
However, it's important to note that although the two switches have different actuation and bottom out forces, they both fall within the medium range. This means that regardless of the switch chosen, users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing feel and experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience – lighter and smoother with the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), or slightly heavier and more tactile with the Quinn.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is clear that the Milky Yellow Pro has a longer travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Quinn has a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. These differences in travel distance can have an impact on the typing experience. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Milky Yellow Pro is more traditional and provides a deeper, more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the 3.4mm travel distance of the Quinn is shallower and may appeal to those who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers. However, it is important to note that both options offer a reasonable travel distance that allows for comfortable typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether you prioritize a longer or shorter travel distance.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its low, "thocky" sound. This switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Quinn switch provides an immersive auditory experience with a higher-pitched sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery and textured. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The textured aspect indicates noticeable friction when pressed, allowing users to have a subtle texture preferred by some or a friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a snappy and polished feel. It is super responsive, providing a typing experience that feels more alive. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a sleek typing experience. Additionally, the Quinn switch provides a bouncy and accented feedback sensation, giving users a lively feel and a medium amount of tactility.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow Pro provides a low-pitched, thocky sound and a buttery, textured feel, making it a versatile all-purpose switch. On the other hand, the Quinn switch provides a bassy, clacky, and resonant sound, along with a snappy, polished, bouncy, and accented feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that enhance the typing experience. While they have their differences, if you desire a deep and rich sound profile and a smooth keystroke experience, both switches can provide similar results. The final choice would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a budget enthusiast looking for a versatile switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the perfect choice for you. With its smoothness, low-pitched "thocky" sound, and satisfying resistance, it offers a delightful all-purpose typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique combination of crisp, light tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is the one to go for. Its specially designed nylon housings enhance the typing experience, offering a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump. Both switches provide a medium to medium-heavy bottom out force, making them suitable for users who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, with the Milky Yellow Pro offering a buttery and textured feel, while the Quinn delivers a snappy and polished typing experience.
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