Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Red is celebrated for its smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, ideal for those seeking a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is praised for its buttery smoothness, low "thocky" sound, and thick resistance, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing. While the Jupiter Red leans towards a polished and creamy feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) embodies a bassy and buttery texture. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound, while nylon's softness absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. This difference in sound profiles between the two housing materials gives each switch a unique auditory experience.
Both the Jupiter Red and the Milky Yellow Pro have nylon bottom housings, which offer a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches means that they will both provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound when bottoming out keys, despite the differences in their top housings.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) will come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing will provide a sharper and crisper sound, while the Milky Yellow Pro's nylon top housing will offer a deeper and fuller tone. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar typing experience in terms of sound when bottoming out keys. Ultimately, it is important to consider your preferred sound profile when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Red is lighter in both categories. The Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall within the medium force range, making them suitable for a variety of typing preferences. The lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Red may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the slightly heavier actuation force of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Overall, both switches offer different weight options to cater to individual preferences, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for all users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a consistent distance of travel from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the two switches, as they both offer a smooth and linear feel with the same amount of key travel. Users can expect similar results in terms of key press experience with either the Gateron Jupiter Red or the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch.
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 Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is described as having a neutral profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound characteristics, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. This difference in sound profiles can cater to different preferences, with the Jupiter Red offering a more versatile option while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) excels in providing a satisfyingly thick and bass-heavy sound experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is known for its polished, creamy, silky, and mild characteristics, offering a refined and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery and textured, providing a seamless and uniform keystroke experience with noticeable friction for users who prefer a more tactile feel. These differences in feel highlight the diversity in typing experiences that these switches can offer, catering to various preferences and typing styles.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch excels in providing a neutral sound profile and a polished, creamy feel, making it a versatile and smooth option for a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch stands out with its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound characteristics, paired with a buttery and textured feel for a more tactile typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect fit based on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a smooth, consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation, the Jupiter Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a budget-friendly switch that excels in both typing and gaming with a low, "thocky" sound profile, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing style.
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