Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Twilight stand out as two remarkable options for enthusiasts, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is celebrated for its smooth, buttery feel, producing a low "thocky" sound that many users find satisfying while typing or gaming. Its well-rounded performance makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious users who don’t want to sacrifice quality for affordability. In contrast, the HMX Twilight boasts an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, which slightly dampens sound while still preserving the distinct clacky characteristics that HMX switches are known for. This makes it an appealing option for those who appreciate a quieter experience without compromising on tactile feedback. Both switches cater to different user preferences, whether you prioritize budget-conscious all-rounders or a more specialized, quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal 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
3.85 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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Twilight both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, making them quite similar in terms of material composition. Nylon, as a housing material, is noted for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer and more sound-absorbing properties compared to harder plastics. This results in a typing experience that is characterized by a duller and rounder sound profile. Since both switches feature nylon in their construction, users can expect similar acoustic experiences when typing on either switch, which may appeal to those who appreciate a muted sound when engaging with their keyboard.
Despite the shared nylon material, the impact of sound can vary slightly depending on the specific design and structure of each switch. While both the Milky Yellow Pro and the HMX Twilight benefit from nylon's sound-dampening properties, the overall typing feel and sound experience might still differ depending on the configuration and tolerances of the housings. In particular, if the weight or spring characteristics of each switch are different, they can change the tactile feedback perceived while typing, leading to subtle distinctions in the overall user experience. Thus, while they share similar sound qualities due to their nylon construction, other aspects such as feel and response may still diverge.
In cases where the top and bottom housings differ in materials or design, the result is a more segregated sound profile influenced by each housing's characteristics. However, since both the Milky Yellow Pro and the HMX Twilight utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings, users will find that the qualities of sound and feel will maintain a more balanced and harmonious relationship across the entire switch. This means that as long as users are typing on both switches made of the same materials, they can expect consistency in the auditory and tactile sensations, providing a cohesive typing experience whether they opt for the Milky Yellow Pro or the HMX Twilight.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, noticeable differences in actuation and bottom out forces come into play. The Milky Yellow Pro requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, which may suit users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Twilight's lighter actuation force of 42 grams makes it ideal for those who favor a softer touch, contributing to prolonged comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. Similarly, the bottom out force reflects this trend; the Milky Yellow Pro has a bottom out force of 62 grams, compared to the Twilight's 50 grams. Therefore, the Milky Yellow Pro is classified as the heavier option overall, while the HMX Twilight is the lighter alternative. These differences promote varied user preferences; heavier switches provide tactile feedback that some users love, whereas lighter switches are more forgiving and less tiring over extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, the Milky Yellow Pro features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Twilight has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.85 mm. This indicates that the Milky Yellow Pro allows for a more pronounced key press, making it a better choice for those who favor a deeper feel and a more substantial feedback. In contrast, the Twilight's 3.85 mm travel distance caters to gamers and users seeking quicker response times, making it feel less abrupt than traditional switches while still maintaining a reasonable depth. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness in your typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Twilight would be beneficial. Conversely, if you prefer a more hearty depth in your key presses, the Milky Yellow Pro would be the better option.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a low-pitched and thocky acoustic profile, producing a deep, satisfying thud with each key press. This "bassy" sound gives it a rich character that many users find pleasing, especially in a typing or gaming environment. Although the HMX Twilight's specific sound qualities are not detailed, it is noted to possess a slightly quieter profile due to its extended 3.85mm travel distance. This longer travel could mitigate some of the sharpness typically associated with a traditional "clacky" sound, potentially resulting in a more subdued auditory experience compared to the thocky richness of the Milky Yellow Pro.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is praised for its buttery smoothness, delivering an effortless keystroke that many typists and gamers seek. This switch provides a seamless and fluid typing experience while ensuring some level of resistance for feedback. However, the Twilight's tactile experience is not characterized in the provided information, leaving that aspect unknown. Depending on individual preferences, the Twilight may offer a distinct feel yet remains a mystery until more details are available.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) presents a well-rounded option for enthusiasts with its deep, thocky sound and buttery smooth keystroke, making it an excellent choice for both gaming and typing. The HMX Twilight, while noted for its extended travel allowing for a quieter experience, lacks specific details regarding its sound profile and tactile feedback. If you prefer the qualities of the Milky Yellow Pro, you can expect a reliable performance across various use cases, while the Twilight remains an intriguing option with its own potentially unique characteristics that await further exploration.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Twilight linear switch, consider your priorities in typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams that delivers a smooth, buttery typing experience along with a thocky, bassy sound, the Milky Yellow Pro is a fantastic all-rounder for both gaming and typing tasks. This makes it especially appealing if you are on a budget yet want reliable performance across various activities. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the HMX Twilight will suit you well. Its extended travel distance contributes to a quieter typing experience, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise might be an issue, and it still retains that satisfying clacky sound that some users crave. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize a more tactile resistance and sound depth or a lighter keystroke with a focus on quieter operation.
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