Kailh Box White vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White 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 clicky Kailh Box White and the linear Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Box White switch is known for its maximum audio feedback, providing a satisfying and crunchy "stepping on autumn leaves" sound with accented tactility. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switch from Gateron offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a low and "thocky" sound that is perfect for both gaming and typing. While these general descriptions highlight the key characteristics of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for 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
Yes
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 Kailh Box White and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in their housing materials. The Box White features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Box White creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box White and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softness allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches, despite their differences in the top housing, share similar qualities in the bottom-out sound and feel.
When it comes to the impact on sound when releasing a key, the top housing plays a more significant role. With its polycarbonate top housing, the Box White will likely produce a distinct sound when a key is released. The stiffness of polycarbonate aids in creating a sharper and crisper release sound. As for the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing, the sound upon releasing a key will be influenced by the nylon's softer nature, resulting in a deeper and possibly more rounded sound.
Overall, while the housing materials differ between the Kailh Box White and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), they both offer unique sound profiles. The Box White's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, both switches share the qualities of a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound due to their nylon bottom housing. It ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of the desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is equal for both. This ensures a consistent and responsive typing experience. However, when it comes to bottoming out, there is a slight distinction. The Kailh Box White has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro switch provides a slightly firmer and more substantial typing experience when fully pressed, compared to the Box White switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the equal actuation force of both switches would offer similar results. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy the feeling of a stronger push, the heavier bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have different travel distances. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of the traditional range, the Milky Yellow Pro falls within the average 4.0 mm travel distance, while the Box White is slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. Gamers, who value faster response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box White for its increased responsiveness. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press may find the longer travel distance of the Milky Yellow Pro to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance.
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 White comes in at $2.76 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, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is known for its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile. Typing on these switches provides an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound. If you enjoy the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves, the Box White switch will provide a satisfying clicky experience.
On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound. These switches produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." If you prefer a lower frequency range and a more mellow tone, the Milky Yellow Pro switch will deliver a smooth and buttery sound experience.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The smoothness of these switches can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing.
In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switch is known for its buttery and textured feel. These switches provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, giving you a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Some users might appreciate the subtle texture that these switches offer, while others prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities. The Box White switch provides a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound, along with a polished and smooth feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound, coupled with a buttery and textured feel. Depending on your preference, you can choose between maximum audio feedback with a clicky switch or smoothness and buttery goodness with a linear switch. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for maximum audio feedback and enjoy a crunchy sound when typing, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be a great choice for you. The Box White switch offers a clean and sharp high-pitched sound profile, resembling the satisfying sensation of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Additionally, it provides a polished and smooth typing experience, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lower-pitched and rich sound profile, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be an excellent option. The Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a "thocky" sound when pressed, similar to a deep and satisfying thud or knock. It provides a buttery and uniform typing sensation, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics and cater to different preferences. If you prioritize audio feedback and a polished feel, go for the Kailh Box White. However, if you value a low-pitched sound and a buttery typing experience, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go. Consider your preferences and decide which switch aligns better with your typing style and desired auditory experience. Whether you choose the Box White or the Milky Yellow Pro, you can't go wrong with either of these high-quality mechanical keyboard switches.
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