Kailh Box Royal vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a plethora of options to consider. Two popular choices are the Kailh Box Royal, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), a linear switch. The Box Royal is known for its unbeatable tactility, providing a sharp and aggressive feedback, perfect for those seeking a robust typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is described as a classic budget switch, offering smoothness and buttery goodness. With its low, thocky sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, it excels in both gaming and typing scenarios, making it a versatile all-purpose switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) Linear

$6.25 per 10

$2.33

$2.30 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize nylon as their housing material, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic compared to harder alternatives, resulting in increased sound absorption and a rounder, duller sound. As a result, users can expect a similar sound experience when typing on either switch due to the use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings.

However, despite their similarities, there can still be differences in the housing materials of the two switches. If the top and bottom housings are different for a particular switch, the qualities associated with each housing material will be divided between the bottom and top of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key.

Overall, it can be concluded that the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches offer comparable results in terms of sound production, thanks to their shared use of nylon as a housing material. However, any differences in the distribution of nylon between the top and bottom housings might result in slight variations in the sound profile, particularly during keypress or key release. Despite these potential differences, users can expect a satisfying and deeper typing experience from both switches due to the qualities offered by nylon housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Box Royal has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 50 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Box Royal is heavier at 70 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro is slightly lighter at 62 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro might be more suitable, as its actuation force is lower. This allows for smoother keystrokes and may be beneficial for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions that require precise and rapid inputs. On the other hand, the Box Royal offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. This can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel while typing.

Overall, while both switches fall under the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, they do have slight differences that cater to individual preferences. The Box Royal offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial keystroke feel, while the Milky Yellow Pro has a lighter actuation force, allowing for a smoother and lighter typing experience. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Royal. Typically, a travel distance of 4 mm is considered the most traditional, while a distance of 3.6 mm is slightly shorter. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, so if you prioritize responsiveness, the Box Royal may be the better choice. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a deeper key press, in which case the longer travel distance of the Milky Yellow Pro would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is best described as high-pitched. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, offering a distinctive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a different sound profile. It is characterized as low-pitched and bassy, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. In addition, the Milky Yellow Pro switch is known for its "thocky" sound, which is a deep, rich, and satisfying sound resembling a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. It's worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is described as having a sharp tactile feel. These switches are known for their high feedback intensity, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a buttery and textured feel. The term "buttery" implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with these switches offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, some users may appreciate the subtle texture of these switches, while others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience.

Based on the available information, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Royal switch provides a highly tactile experience with a sharp, binary tactility and a relatively higher pitched sound. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switch embodies smoothness and buttery goodness, with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. Both switches have their unique appeal and excel in different scenarios, with the Box Royal being ideal for those seeking an aggressive tactility and the Milky Yellow Pro being a versatile all-purpose switch. However, it's important to consider that individual preferences may vary, and the final experience is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're someone who values a highly tactile typing experience and prefers a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and sharp, binary tactility, these switches provide a nearly aggressive tactile feedback that satisfies those who crave a pronounced click with every keypress. The higher-pitched sound profile adds to the overall typing experience, producing a crisp and sharp sound.

On the other hand, if you're looking for a versatile, all-purpose switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is a perfect option. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches offer a satisfyingly thick resistance, creating a smooth and buttery keystroke experience. The low-pitched, thocky sound profile adds depth and richness to each keypress, providing a pleasant auditory experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches depends on your preference for tactile feedback and sound. If you prioritize a strong and distinct tactile bump, as well as a higher-pitched sound, the Box Royals are the way to go. However, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched thocky sound, the Milky Yellow Pros are the perfect choice. Consider your needs and preferences carefully, and you'll be on your way to finding the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for you.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) Linear

$2.33

$2.30 per 10

Learn more