Kailh Berry vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Berry and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Berry is known for its hefty typing experience and springy feel, with a chalk-like texture and a fairly deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is a budget switch that embodies smoothness and buttery goodness. With its low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, it excels in both gaming and typing, making it a perfect all-purpose switch. It's no surprise that these Milky Yellows are the go-to switch for budget enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) have different housing materials for both the top and bottom parts of the switch. The Berry features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
Similarly, the Berry and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both have nylon bottom housings. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. These bottom housings have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down.
While the two switches have different housing materials, the impact of the housing material's qualities is split between the top and bottom of the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced in the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences, both switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience, with the Berry's polycarbonate and the Milky Yellow Pro's nylon offering distinct sound profiles and aesthetic options.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, some notable differences can be identified. The actuation force for the Kailh Berry is unavailable, making it difficult to determine its exact value. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an actuation force of 50 grams. This lighter actuation force allows for a smoother and quicker keystroke activation, which can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a lighter touch or those who type for extended periods of time.
In terms of bottom out force, the Kailh Berry linear switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating a medium-heavy switch. This heavier force provides a more substantial typing experience, making it ideal for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls within the medium range.
Considering weight as an important factor, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) due to its lower actuation force. This switch would be suitable for activities such as long gaming sessions or bringing a keyboard to work. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Kailh Berry with its heavier bottom out force.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Kailh Berry is unavailable, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a lighter actuation force of 50 grams. The Kailh Berry has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a medium bottom out force of 62 grams. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm distance. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro has a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls within the traditional range. For gamers or individuals looking for a faster response time, the shorter travel distance of the Berry switch may be preferred. This allows for quicker actuation and potentially improved gaming performance. However, it's important to note that some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel abrupt. For those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the 4 mm travel distance of the Milky Yellow Pro switch may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user. Whether choosing the Berry or the Milky Yellow Pro, both switches provide different travel distances that will cater to various typing or gaming preferences.
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 Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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
When it comes to sound, both the Kailh Berry and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches have similar qualities. They are both described as low-pitched and bassy, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. This means that they produce a more mellow and bass-heavy tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is also described with the term "thocky," indicating that it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. 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.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry switch is described as having a springy and chalk-like texture. This suggests that the typing experience on these switches offers a noticeable amount of resistance and a slightly textured sensation when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This means that the Gateron switch offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation.
Taking into consideration the available information, both switches offer their unique qualities. The Kailh Berry switch provides a hefty and springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch embodies smoothness and buttery goodness with a satisfyingly thick resistance. Both switches also offer a low-pitched and bassy sound profile during key presses, with the Gateron switch adding the additional thocky characteristic. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would come down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound, as well as considering other factors such as budget and specific typing or gaming needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture, then the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and produce a fairly deep sound profile, characterized by low-pitched and bassy tones. On the other hand, if you're looking for a versatile and budget-friendly option, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be the way to go. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, this switch provides a satisfyingly thick resistance and a low-pitched, bassy sound. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, making it suitable for both gaming and typing tasks. Ultimately, both switches have their unique features and advantages, so the final decision depends on your personal preferences and requirements.
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