Gateron Beer vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer 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 Beer, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), a linear switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Beer switch stands out with its mesmerizing translucent green color inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, offering a lightweight and subtly tactile typing experience with a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is praised for its smooth and buttery linear feel, accompanied by a low, "thocky" sound that is perfect for both gaming and typing tasks. While the Beer switch provides an easy-to-press and stepped tactility, the Milky Yellow Pro offers a bassy, buttery feeling with a textured and low-pitched response. 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
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), it is evident that they differ in material composition with the Beer featuring a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Beer results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a crisper typing experience. In contrast, the nylon housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more subdued typing sensation compared to the Beer's polycarbonate housing.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience. The polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Beer work together to create a clear and resonant sound profile, accentuated by the stiffness of the material. On the other hand, the nylon top and bottom housings of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) absorb more sound due to the softer nature of nylon, resulting in a rounder and duller sound profile. While the two switches offer unique sound characteristics, they both strive to enhance the overall typing experience for users.
In considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it is important to recognize that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound produced when the key is released. With the polycarbonate and nylon housings offering distinct sound profiles, users can choose between the sharp and crisp typing experience of the Beer or the deep and full sound profile of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) based on their personal preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Beer switch is lighter in both respects. The Beer switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Beer switch make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch offers a slightly heavier feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Beer switch may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Milky Yellow Pro switch might be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press sensation. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the Beer providing a more rapid keystroke and the Milky Yellow Pro offering a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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.
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 Beer tactile switch is known for its characteristic clacky sound signature, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as having a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying tone during key presses. Depending on personal preference and the setup of your keyboard, the sound produced by these switches can vary but generally align with these descriptions.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is appreciated for being easy-to-press and offering a gentler resistance during key presses. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the stepped tactility of the Beer switch provides a subtle feel with distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel stages, contributing to its unique typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is praised for its buttery and textured feel, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is uniform and seamless. The textured nature of these switches may appeal to users who enjoy a bit of friction in their typing experience.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, it's evident that the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct experiences in both aspects. The Beer switch stands out with its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press, stepped tactility, providing a refreshing typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switch excels in delivering a bassy, thocky sound and a buttery, textured feel that is smooth and satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, it's important to note that both switches offer their own unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, ensuring that you'll get satisfying results regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Beer tactile switch or the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a light actuation force and a clacky sound signature, the Beer tactile switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and a bassy, thocky sound with a buttery and textured feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall user experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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