Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4T. The Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch known for its smoothness and satisfyingly thick resistance. It excels in both gaming and typing, making it a perfect all-purpose switch. On the other hand, the U4T offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. With its bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, every keystroke provides both auditory and tactile satisfaction. While both switches offer unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4T have some similarities, as both switches utilize soft plastic materials that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the U4T incorporates a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," which also delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Therefore, both switches produce a satisfying auditory experience.
However, when comparing the bottom housings, the differences between the two switches become apparent. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) employs a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile when the switch is pressed down. With nylon's ability to absorb sound, the bottom-out sound and feel of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) are enhanced, providing a deeper and more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which also incorporates the softness of the "boba plastic." This softness contributes to a rich and deep sound when the switch is pressed down, further enhancing the sensory experience.
When it comes to the impact on sound upon releasing a key, the top housing material plays a significant role. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) absorbs sound and creates a rounder sound profile when a key is released. Conversely, the proprietary Gazzew blend top housing of the U4T, with its softness, also contributes to a satisfying sound when a key is let go. Thus, both switches offer a similar result in terms of the sound produced upon key release.
In summary, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Gazzew U4T have some similarities in their housing materials, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) enhances the bottom-out sound and feel, while the proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4T provides a unique and rich tactile experience. However, both switches deliver similar results in terms of the sound produced when a key is released, thanks to their respective top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is clear that they have different characteristics. The Milky Yellow Pro has a known actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, both falling into the medium range. On the other hand, the actuation force of the U4T is unknown, but it also has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is the same as the Milky Yellow Pro.
The weight of a switch is an important consideration for many users. Those who prefer a lighter switch often find it more comfortable for extended typing sessions and long gaming sessions. This lighter weight allows for less fatigue on the fingers and allows for quicker keystrokes. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy the feel of a stronger push, a switch with a heavier actuation force is more suitable.
In the case of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), the actuation force of 50 grams offers a relatively light touch, making it suitable for users who prioritize extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the U4T's actuation force is unknown, preventing a direct comparison. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel and force required to fully depress the keys.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is lighter at 50 grams, the actuation force of the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is unknown. However, both switches possess a bottom out force of 62 grams, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of fully depressing the keys. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for either a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is the same, measuring 4 mm. Both switches offer a consistent travel distance of 4 mm when pressed, allowing users to have a consistent tactile experience. Whether it is the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) or the Gazzew U4T, pressing down on a key will result in a travel distance of 4 mm, ensuring a similar feel and response for typists.
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 U4T 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 U4T switches both offer unique sound profiles. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is characterized as bassy and low-pitched, providing a deep and rich sound during key presses. It also has a thocky sound, producing a satisfying "thud" or "knock" when the key is pressed and released. Similarly, the U4T switch is also described as bassy and thocky, offering a deep and rich sound profile. Both switches provide an auditory experience that enthusiasts appreciate. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches are described as buttery and textured. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The switches are also mentioned to have a textured feel, which implies noticeable friction when pressed. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switches are known for their sharp tactile feedback. These switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each and every keypress. This sharp tactile feedback adds to the overall typing experience and can be preferred by users who appreciate a highly tactile switch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4T switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both provide a bassy sound profile, with the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) having a low-pitched sound as well. Both switches are also described as thocky, producing a satisfying sound. In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a buttery and textured experience, while the U4T provides a sharp and intense tactile feedback. Therefore, depending on the user's preferences for sound and feel, they can choose between these switches to achieve the desired typing experience. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can further influence the overall subjective qualities of these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have their unique qualities for different preferences and needs. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly switch that provides smoothness and a satisfyingly thick resistance. Its low-pitched, thocky sound profile adds to the overall enjoyment of typing and gaming, making it a versatile and all-purpose switch. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactile feedback. Its bassy thock sound and assertive tactile bump provide both auditory and tactile satisfaction with each keystroke. If you prioritize a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses and enjoy a smooth and fluid typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. However, if you seek a switch with intense feedback and a distinctive tactile bump, then the U4T would be an ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing or gaming style.
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