Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g both offer unique benefits tailored to different typing experiences, despite both being linear switches. The Milky Yellow Pro is celebrated for its buttery smoothness and satisfying "thocky" sound, combined with a thick resistance that makes it versatile for both gaming and typing. This all-rounder switch is favored by budget-conscious enthusiasts who seek an affordable option without sacrificing quality. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura switches are engineered specifically for those who prioritize a quiet environment, offering an ultra-light bottom-out force of 43g that caters to light typists yearning for a serene typing experience. While the Milky Yellow Pro excels in delivering tactile feedback and versatility, the Silent Sakura focuses on minimizing noise, making it ideal for shared or quiet spaces. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches both feature nylon as a material for their top housing, which provides a commonality in their auditory characteristics. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This shared choice of material for the top housing ensures that both switches will yield a duller, rounder sound when typing, making them ideal for users seeking a quieter and more muted typing experience. Consequently, regardless of the design differences, the similar use of nylon in the top housing signifies that users can expect comparable auditory feedback when actuating these switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differs from that of the Silent Sakura - 43g. While the Milky Yellow Pro employs a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a cohesive deeper sound profile throughout the switch, the Silent Sakura opts for polycarbonate. The use of polycarbonate imparts a sharper and crisper tonal quality, creating a more resonant sound. This stark difference significantly influences how each switch feels and sounds during use. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sensation and sound—meaning that consumers who prefer the characteristics of a nylon bottom may find the Milky Yellow Pro to be more suitable, whereas those who desire a higher-pitched return sound might gravitate towards the Silent Sakura.
Furthermore, the aesthetic and functional implications of housing materials also differentiate these two switches. The polycarbonate used in the Silent Sakura's bottom housing allows for greater translucency, making it particularly effective when considering RGB lighting integrations. This feature can enhance the overall visual experience for users who prioritize light effects on their keyboards. Conversely, the Milky Yellow Pro's all-nylon construction ensures that sound dampening remains a standout feature, which can appeal to users who prioritize auditory performance over visual flair. Ultimately, while both switches share a common groundwork in their top housing, the differences in bottom housing material result in distinct user experiences and preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are noticeable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Milky Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, reflecting a medium weight that some typists and gamers may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This lower weight can make for longer typing sessions or extended gaming without fatigue, as it requires less effort to press the keys. Ultimately, for those who desire a heavier switch, the Milky Yellow Pro is the better choice, whereas the Silent Sakura caters to individuals who favor a lighter touch. Thus, if you're looking for a switch that feels lighter and easier to press, the HMX Silent Sakura is the way to go, while the Gateron offers a more robust and resistant typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they offer the same distance from top to bottom when a key is pressed. As a result, users can expect similar feel and responsiveness when actuating either switch, contributing to a consistent typing experience. With no difference in travel distance, this similarity suggests that both switches will deliver comparable performance in terms of keypress depth.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 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 Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a rich, deep sound profile that is characterized by a low-pitched "thocky" resonance. This bass-heavy acoustics delivers a satisfying auditory experience that is likely to appeal to many gamers and typists who enjoy the deeper sounds reminiscent of a soft "thud" when keys are pressed. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered for a quieter operation, promising a typing experience akin to delicate raindrops tapping against a window. While the Milky Yellows exude an audible presence during use, the Silent Sakura is designed to minimize sound, making them ideal for environments where noise levels must be kept to a minimum. Ultimately, while both switches can provide a rewarding typing experience, they cater to distinctly different auditory preferences.
Regarding feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) excels with its buttery smooth keystrokes and textured resistance, delivering a fluid and seamless typing sensation. It balances these qualities effectively, allowing for a satisfying tactile experience as fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. The tactile feedback here may appeal to those who appreciate a bit of texture in their keystrokes. On the other hand, while the specific feel of the Silent Sakura - 43g isn’t detailed, the lighter bottom-out force suggests a gentler typing experience likely tailored for users who prefer softer actuation and a minimal effort to register key presses. This difference in resistance could make the Silent Sakura more accessible for light typists, offering a tranquil and easy-to-manage keystroke.
In summary, if you are seeking a classic, budget-friendly switch with a deep, booming sound and a smooth feel, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is an excellent choice. It provides a balanced auditory and tactile experience that suits a wide range of uses, from gaming to typing. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g caters to users looking for a minimalist and quiet typing experience with a low actuation force, ideal for quieter environments. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, selecting between these two switches will lead to distinctly different typing experiences, each enjoyable in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switches largely depends on your typing style, sound preference, and environment. If you're someone who enjoys a smooth and satisfying keystroke with a gratifying "thocky" sound profile, the Milky Yellow Pro is an excellent all-purpose switch that balances performance in both gaming and typing scenarios, especially if you appreciate a medium actuation force of 62 grams. This switch will fit well in both casual and competitive settings, making it a fantastic option for budget-conscious enthusiasts looking for versatility. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter, lighter typing experience—perhaps for late-night usage or in shared workspaces—the Silent Sakura's ultra-light 43g actuation force caters to that need, delivering a serene experience akin to gentle raindrops. This makes the Sakura ideal for users who prioritize a tranquil environment while typing. Ultimately, your ideal choice hinges on whether you value the tactile feedback and sound of the Milky Yellow Pro or the whisper-quiet comfort of the Silent Sakura.
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