Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Gazzew U4 are two prominent mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct qualities to enhance your typing and gaming experience. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch that shines as a reliable and budget-friendly option. Its smoothness and satisfyingly thick resistance lend themselves well to both gaming and typing, making it a versatile choice for any keyboard enthusiast. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch that introduces a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, accompanied by a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. While it offers a whisper-quiet sound profile, the U4s bring style and subtlety to the forefront. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4 share some similarities in terms of sound profile. Both switches utilize housing materials that are described as softer plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," contributes to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience from both switches.
However, while the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon bottom housing that, like the top housing, absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the U4 incorporates a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile as well. This means that the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a satisfying and immersive typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4 share similarities in their housing materials, particularly in terms of sound profile. Both switches utilize softer plastics that absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound experience. While the top housing affects the sound upon key release, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether it's the nylon top and bottom housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) or the proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing of the U4, users can expect comparable results in terms of the immersive and satisfying typing experience provided by these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, some noticeable similarities and differences emerge. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the heavier option, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 62 grams. So, although the actuation forces differ slightly, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of bottoming out. Weight is an important factor to consider for individuals seeking specific typing preferences. Those who prefer a lighter switch will find the Gazzew U4 favorable, as it allows for extended typing or gaming without fatigue. On the contrary, for users who desire a more substantial and forceful keystroke, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be a suitable choice due to its heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, offering a moderate depth to the key press. On the other hand, the U4 has a slightly shallower travel distance, which some gamers may prefer for faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the U4 can help to reduce the time it takes for a keystroke to be registered, which is advantageous in gaming scenarios. However, it's worth noting that shorter travel distances can sometimes feel abrupt to some individuals. For those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying key press, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro may be the better option. Overall, the choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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) and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch are quite different in terms of their subjective qualities of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is best known for its low, "thocky" sound, which is characterized by a deep and satisfying tone. It has a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the U4 has a muted sound profile that is whisper quiet, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It offers a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. Overall, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be the choice for you. However, if you prefer a quieter and more subdued sound, the U4 would be the better option.
In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a seamless and effortless typing sensation. It is not described as textured, implying that it does not have noticeable friction when pressed. On the other hand, the U4 is described as having a sharp tactile bump, providing a high feedback intensity. Each and every keypress can be distinctly felt with its strong and crisp tactile bump. The U4 does not have any descriptors related to a buttery or smooth keystroke experience. Therefore, if you prefer a smooth and effortless typing sensation, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be the recommended choice. However, if you prefer a more pronounced and satisfying tactile bump, the U4 would be the better option.
To summarize, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch differ in their subjective qualities of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a low, "thocky" sound with a buttery and smooth keystroke experience. It is a great all-rounder switch for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the U4 has a muted sound profile that is whisper quiet, with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump. It provides a distinct and intense feedback during each keypress. Whether you prefer a deeper sound and a smooth typing experience or a quieter sound with a pronounced tactile bump, these switches offer different options to suit your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly, versatile switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. With its smoothness and satisfying resistance, it offers a buttery typing experience and a low, thocky sound. These switches are ideal for those seeking a classic, budget switch that performs well in various scenarios.
On the other hand, if you prefer a silent tactile switch with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 is the better choice. Its plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation adds a unique touch to your typing experience. Not only are these switches silent and muted, but they also have a low-pitched, mellow sound profile.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4 comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking. Whether you prioritize smoothness, buttery typing, and a thocky sound, or a silent, sharp tactile bump with a muted, low-pitched sound profile, both switches have their own unique characteristics to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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