Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both offer unique characteristics for different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro stands out for its smoothness, low "thocky" sound, and satisfyingly thick resistance, making it ideal for gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch is crafted with a PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, offering a blend of sophistication and performance. While the Milky Yellow Pro excels in all-purpose use and budget-friendly enthusiasts, the Xinhai provides a different feel with its bouncy and clacky sound. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Xinhai, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches made with nylon, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite the similarities in the bottom housing material, the difference lies in the top housing where the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) uses nylon while the Xinhai opts for polycarbonate. The polycarbonate in the Xinhai results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, which enhances clarity and resonance.
The choice of housing materials greatly influences the sound and feel of a switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Xinhai showcase the distinctive qualities of nylon in their bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the difference in their top housing material sets them apart, with the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offering a softer and more absorbent sound profile with nylon, while the Xinhai provides a crisper and more resonant sound with polycarbonate.
Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate in the housing materials of switches like the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Xinhai ultimately comes down to personal preference. Those who prefer a softer, duller sound profile may appreciate the nylon housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), while those seeking a clearer and sharper sound may be drawn to the polycarbonate housing of the Xinhai. Despite their differences, both housing materials bring unique qualities to the switches, offering users a variety of sound profiles to choose from based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is clear that the Xinhai is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who enjoy a bit of resistance. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the Xinhai is lighter overall, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Xinhai the shorter option between the two. The Milky Yellow Pro falls into the more traditional travel distance category, whereas the Xinhai offers a shallower feel. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Xinhai for its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro. Both switches provide their own unique feel and experience, so the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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) linear switch is known for its deep, bassy thocky sound that provides a satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a clacky and sharp sound that is crisp and bright. Depending on personal preference, the Milky Yellow Pro offers a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, while the Xinhai provides a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance. Ultimately, whether you prefer a bass-heavy thocky sound or a sharp clacky sound will determine which switch is more suitable for your setup.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is lauded for its buttery and smooth keystroke experience that gives a seamless and effortless typing sensation. It is also noted for having a textured feel, providing some friction for those who prefer a bit of resistance. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a bouncy feedback sensation with a creamy and smooth typing experience. The bouncy feel provides a spring-like rebound when pressed, while the creamy texture allows for effortless keystrokes with a silky sensation. Depending on whether you prefer a buttery and textured feel or a bouncy and creamy experience, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Xinhai linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow Pro excels in providing a bassy and thocky sound with a buttery and textured feel, making it a versatile budget option for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai features a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel, offering a more sophisticated and precise typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. If you prefer a deep, bassy sound and a smooth, effortless feel, the Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go. If you enjoy a sharp, clacky sound and a bouncy, creamy feel, the HMX Xinhai is the ideal choice.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the HMX Xinhai linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force and a satisfying "thocky" sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is a great choice for an all-purpose switch that excels in both gaming and typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a switch with a unique softer acoustics profile and crisp, higher-pitched resonance, the Xinhai switch may be the perfect fit for you. Consider your sound and feel preferences carefully before making your decision, as both switches offer their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, choose the switch that best complements your typing experience and enhances your overall enjoyment of using a mechanical keyboard.
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