Durock Black Lotus vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro. The Black Lotus is known for its silky smooth feel and unmatched precision, guaranteeing a typing experience free from wobbling. With a moderate 55g actuation weight, it strikes a perfect balance between being substantial without feeling too heavy. Additionally, its unique light column provides customizable in-switch lighting that can be fully removed if desired. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing. Renowned for its smoothness and buttery goodness, this switch produces a satisfyingly thick resistance accompanied by a low, "thocky" sound. As a result, it has become the go-to choice for budget enthusiasts searching for a versatile switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in their housing materials, which in turn affects the overall typing experience. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the Milky Yellow Pro utilizes a nylon top housing. The PC and UPE Blend housing of the Black Lotus offers a unique and premium feel, potentially providing a more solid and sturdy typing experience compared to the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro. However, the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. So, while the materials differ, both switches offer their own specific advantages in terms of typing feel and sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Black Lotus and Milky Yellow Pro feature nylon housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottoms elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This implies that both switches will produce a similar sound profile when bottomed out, creating a potentially pleasant and immersive typing experience. However, it is worth noting that the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, so there may be slight differences in the overall feel when pressing down on each switch.
In summary, the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in their top housings, with the Black Lotus featuring a modified PC and UPE Blend housing and the Milky Yellow Pro utilizing a nylon housing. This difference can impact the premium feel and sound profile of each switch. However, both switches share a common nylon bottom housing, which will contribute to a similar deep and full sound when bottoming out. Overall, while there are variations, both switches offer their own unique advantages in terms of typing feel and sound, providing options for different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we find a few key differences. The actuation force of the Black Lotus is slightly heavier at 55 grams, compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 50 grams. This means that the Black Lotus requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, both switches have similar forces. The Black Lotus has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly lighter force of 62 grams.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro. Its lower actuation force allows for easier keystrokes, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Black Lotus offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. This can be advantageous for those who enjoy the tactile feedback and a sense of precision while typing.
Overall, while the actuation forces differ slightly, the bottom out forces of both switches are relatively similar. Therefore, users can expect comparable results in terms of the typing experience and how the keys feel when fully pressed down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on an individual's preference for lighter or heavier actuation forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the Black Lotus or the Milky Yellow Pro, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance of the switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
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 Black Lotus switch is difficult to describe based on the given information. However, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is known for its low-pitched, bassy, and thocky sound. This means that when pressed, the Milky Yellow Pro produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound, similar to a soft "knock" or a deep "thud". Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus switch is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. This indicates that it offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. The typing sensation is fluid and uniform, providing an effortless typing experience. The switch has a refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is noted as buttery and textured. This implies that the switch offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. However, there may be noticeable friction when pressing the keys due to its textured nature. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
Overall, the Black Lotus and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches have different subjective qualities. The Black Lotus excels in reducing wobble for maximum typing pleasure, offering a silky and polished feel. Meanwhile, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its satisfyingly thick resistance and thocky sound, making it a versatile switch for both gaming and typing purposes. If you are looking for a switch with a smooth and buttery typing experience, both switches can provide a similar overall result. Considering your personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and other factors such as budget and switch weight can help determine which switch is better suited for your needs.
Conclusion
In summary, if you're looking for a switch with a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, the Durock Black Lotus would be an excellent choice for you. These switches reduce housing and stem wobble, providing maximum typing pleasure. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the Black Lotus offers substantial actuation weight without being too hefty. Additionally, the unique light column provides in-switch lighting and is fully removable, adding a touch of customization to your mechanical keyboard setup.
On the other hand, if you're a budget enthusiast searching for a versatile switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the switch for you. With its smooth and buttery goodness, this all-rounder linear switch embodies a satisfyingly thick resistance and delivers a low-pitched and "thocky" sound profile. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its classic and budget-friendly nature, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
Ultimately, when it comes to sound, the Black Lotus offers a sound profile that is not specified. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a low-pitched and "thocky" sound, providing a deeper and richer sound profile resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones, as well as a satisfyingly thick resistance.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a buttery typing experience. The Black Lotus is also described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished, enhancing the smoothness and refined finish of the typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, with some users preferring its textured feel that provides noticeable friction when pressed.
In conclusion, the Durock Black Lotus is a top-notch choice for those seeking smoothness, precision, and customization options. Alternatively, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the go-to switch for budget enthusiasts looking for versatility, satisfying resistance, and a low-pitched "thocky" sound profile. Whether you prioritize smoothness and customization or versatility and budget-friendliness, both switches offer excellent options for your mechanical keyboard needs.
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