Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between various options that cater to different preferences. The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g stands out with its notably light actuation force and bright sound profile, offering a swift and responsive typing experience that resonates with those who enjoy a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) embodies a more traditional approach to linear switches, celebrated for its buttery smoothness and a satisfying "thocky" sound characteristic, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing scenarios. While the Chiikawa provides a unique auditory experience and a lighter feel for nimble typists, the Milky Yellow Pro reassures users with its robust performance and pleasing tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
34g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches are distinctly different, especially in terms of their top housings. The Chiikawa - 28g features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This stiffer plastic allows for clearer resonance when typing, making it an exceptional choice for users who prioritize audible feedback and audio clarity, particularly in RGB-equipped setups where translucence can enhance visual aesthetics. Conversely, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, a material celebrated for its softer composition that yields a deeper and fuller sound. This results in a rounder auditory experience, highlighting the distinct characteristics that each material brings to the typing experience.
When considering the bottom housings, both the Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) employ nylon, thus aligning their sound profiles more closely at this level. As nylon is a classic material for switch housings, both switches produce a fuller sound as a result of the material’s ability to absorb sound vibrations. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches means that users can expect a similar depth in sound when bottoming out, regardless of the contrasting qualities of their respective top housings. This cohesion in the bottom materials can lead to a blended overall auditory experience that balances both switches, particularly for users who value a rich, satisfying typing feel.
In summary, the combination of differing top housings—polycarbonate for the Chiikawa - 28g and nylon for the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)—creates a unique sound signature for each switch, while their shared nylon bottom housing ensures some level of auditory consistency. Users looking for a more pronounced top-end sound profile will likely favor the Chiikawa - 28g, while those who prefer a fuller, more rounded sound may gravitate towards the Milky Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the experience will be shaped not just by the materials themselves but by the interplay of the distinct properties of the top and bottom housings in these innovative mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, significant differences emerge. The Chiikawa switch features a notably lighter actuation force of 28 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer typing experience that allows for prolonged use during work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, catering to those who favor a more substantial and tactile feel with each keystroke. Regarding bottom out forces, the Chiikawa also stands at a lighter 34 grams versus the Milky Yellow Pro’s heftier 62 grams. As a result, the Chiikawa switch is consistently the lighter option when it comes to both actuation and bottom out forces, making it more suited for those seeking comfort and effortless key presses, while the Milky Yellow Pro provides a more robust typing experience for those who appreciate a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we find a notable difference. The Chiikawa - 28g features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you choose the Chiikawa switch, you'll benefit from its shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive and suited for gamers who prioritize quick key presses. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro offers a more traditional and hearty feel with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a deeper key travel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you favor responsiveness or a more pronounced key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 28g for $3.29.
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
When it comes to sound, the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch delivers a bright and crisp auditory experience, marked by its high-pitched profile that resonates sharply during typing. This response results in an engaging sound signature that can be particularly pleasing for those who enjoy a more responsive auditory feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a more bass-oriented sound characterized by its deeper, low-pitched, and thocky qualities. The deeper timbre associated with the Milky Yellow Pro produces a richer sound profile that exudes a soft "knock" sensation, making it feel more pleasing and substantial with each keystroke. Therefore, while both switches can deliver satisfying experiences, they cater to different preferences in acoustic feedback.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is recognized for its light actuation force, which emphasizes its quick responsiveness, ideal for those who favor effortless typing. However, details about its tactile sensations are not specified, leaving some mystery about its overall tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is renowned for its buttery smoothness, providing a fluid and seamless keystroke experience that many users find enjoyable. It strikes a balance between smoothness and thickness, allowing for a tactile engagement without a gritty transition. This switch is an all-rounder, appealing to both gamers and typists who value a consistent and satisfying feel.
In summary, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches showcase distinct auditory and tactile qualities catering to different user preferences. The Chiikawa excels in its bright, responsive sound and light actuation, while the Milky Yellow Pro is celebrated for its thocky, bass-rich sound and buttery feel that provides a smooth typing experience. Depending on what aspects of typing and gaming are prioritized, choosing between these two will likely come down to whether one values a lighter, more articulate sound, or a deeper, more rounded tone with a smooth tactile feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a light and responsive feel with a bright and crisp sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g is ideal for you, especially if you enjoy fast-paced typing without the fatigue of heavier switches. Its lower actuation force makes it a great option for those who prioritize speed and agility in their key presses, particularly in situations like gaming or rapid typing. However, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) becomes the better choice. Its medium actuation force and smooth, buttery feel ensure a more grounded keystroke, making it an excellent all-rounder for both typing and gaming enthusiasts. Ultimately, your selection should align with how you want your keyboard to feel and sound—whether you lean towards the lightweight nimbleness of the Chiikawa or the versatility and rich acoustic profile of the Milky Yellow Pro.
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