Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Swift both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro is praised for its smooth and buttery feel, with a low-pitched "thocky" sound that appeals to both gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, complemented by a light 42g actuation force. While the Milky Yellow Pro excels in providing a budget-friendly, all-purpose experience, the Swift offers a unique clacky and feathery feel that may appeal to those looking for something different. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Swift utilize nylon as the material for both their top and bottom switch housings. This choice of material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a more muted and rounded sound when using switches with nylon housings, creating a more pleasant typing experience overall.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, the design and construction of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Swift may differ in terms of how the housing affects the overall typing experience. For example, the placement of the nylon top and bottom housings can impact the sound and feel of the switch when in use. The bottom housing of a switch typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing can affect the sound when a key is released. Therefore, even with the same housing material, the overall typing experience may vary depending on how the housings are implemented in each switch.
Ultimately, the similarities in housing material between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Swift suggest that users can expect a similar typing experience when using either switch. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon, creating a more satisfying typing experience overall. Whether you choose the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) or the HMX Swift, the nylon housing material contributes to a consistent and high-quality typing experience that enthusiasts and casual users alike can appreciate.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams, making the Swift the lighter option. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Milky Yellow Pro is 62 grams, while the Swift requires 50 grams to bottom out. This results in the Milky Yellow Pro being the heavier option overall. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro, while individuals looking for a lighter key press may lean towards the HMX Swift. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to a variety of preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Milky Yellow Pro being slightly longer than the Swift. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Swift, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches 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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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) is known for its bassy and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. The thocky sound it produces is satisfyingly deep and smooth, adding to the overall typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. While the Milky Yellow Pro focuses on a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the Swift provides a brighter sound signature that can be perceived as crisp and percussive. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can choose based on their auditory preferences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its buttery and textured feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is both seamless and effortless. This switch offers a satisfying typing sensation that is uniform and comfortable. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. These qualities indicate that the Swift switch offers a light and gentle typing experience with minimal resistance, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing the overall comfort during extended typing sessions. The creamy sensation of the Swift switch adds to the smooth and silky feel, making keystrokes effortless and enjoyable.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is praised for its deep, bassy sound and buttery, textured feel, the HMX Swift linear switch stands out with its bright, clacky sound and easy-to-press, feathery feel. Both switches excel in different aspects, providing users with a variety of options based on their sound and feel preferences. Whether you opt for the Milky Yellow Pro for a rich and satisfying typing experience or choose the Swift for a crisp and effortless feel, both switches offer quality performance that is sure to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and a switch known for its smoothness, satisfying resistance, and versatility in both gaming and typing, then the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a switch with a deeper sound profile, smooth keystrokes, and a light and bouncy feel, then the HMX Swift might be more up your alley. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
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