Kailh Box Jade vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade 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, there are plenty of options to choose from that cater to different preferences. Two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Box Jade is perfect for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactility. With its high-pitched and invigorating clicks, as well as crunchy tactile bumps, typing on these switches is a delight. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is a classic budget switch that offers a smooth and buttery feel. Its low-pitched "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance make it an excellent choice for both gaming and typing. These switches are perfect for budget enthusiasts who want a versatile switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches differ significantly. The Box Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Box Jade's housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a bright and clear sound, the Box Jade with its polycarbonate top housing would be a better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper and mellower sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing would be more suitable.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Box Jade and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) have a nylon bottom housing. This means that they share similar qualities in terms of sound profile. The nylon material in the bottom housing of these switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose the Box Jade or the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), you will experience a deep and full sound when typing on these switches. The bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the qualities of the shared nylon bottom housing in both switches.
While the top and bottom housings of these switches differ, it is important to note that each housing material contributes to different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the sound and feel when bottoming out the keys, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the keys. As a result, the difference in housing materials between the Box Jade and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) will affect the overall sound and feel of the switches in distinct ways. Whether you prefer a switch with a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and fuller sound, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on your personal preference.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, both of these switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both switches. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference. The Kailh Box Jade switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Gateron switch requires a slightly heavier push to fully press down compared to the Kailh switch.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Kailh Box Jade switch or the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch, as both have similar actuation forces. These lighter switches allow for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Gateron switch may be a better option due to its slightly higher bottom out force. This heavier force provides a more satisfying and robust typing experience. However, it's worth noting that the difference in bottom out force between these two switches is minimal, so the overall typing experience may be quite similar.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a more traditional travel distance, while the Box Jade falls on the shallower end. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box Jade, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deeper feel when typing may opt for the longer travel distance of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and typing style.
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 Box Jade comes in at $5.50 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
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and crisp sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This sound profile is perfect for those who prefer a more distinct and clicky typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound. These switches produce a rich and deep sound, resembling a soft thud or knock when pressed and released. This low-pitched sound profile creates a satisfying and immersive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Box Jade switch is described as accented and invigorating. It provides a moderate to firm actuation force, giving a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The tactile bumps on these switches offer a snappy and reactive feel, making typing on them an invigorating experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery and textured. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. These switches lack noticeable friction when pressed, giving a uniform and friction-free typing experience.
Overall, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Box Jade provides a high-pitched, crunchy sound profile and an accented, invigorating feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a bassy, low-pitched sound and a buttery, textured feel. These differences in sound and feel make them suitable for different preferences and typing experiences. However, it's important to consider that the sound and feel of a switch can also vary based on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, it's recommended to explore and experiment to find the best match for your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you want a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switches are perfect for you. These switches offer crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps when typing, creating a satisfying and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched and thocky sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches are the way to go. These budget linear switches excel in both gaming and typing and provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the Box Jade and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) depends on your preferences for sound and feel, so be sure to consider these characteristics when making your decision.
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