Bsun Cliff vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, enthusiasts find themselves torn between two distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Bsun Cliff offers a medium tactility, providing not only a physical bump for feedback but also a crisp sound signature that appeals to those who enjoy a more interactive typing experience. This tactile feedback is ideal for typists who appreciate a clear indication of key activation, enhancing their overall keystroke satisfaction. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is hailed as a budget-friendly all-rounder, renowned for its smoothness and "thocky" sound profile. With a satisfyingly thick resistance, it excels in both gaming and typing scenarios, making it a favorite among budget enthusiasts seeking versatility without compromising on performance. While each switch has its merits—tactile engagement with the Cliff and buttery smoothness with the Milky Yellow Pro—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Cliff switches and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), a notable distinction lies in their top housing materials. The Bsun Cliff features a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its rigidity and translucence. This choice of material not only contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile but also enhances visual aesthetics, especially for RGB lighting setups, by allowing light to pass through effectively. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro utilizes a nylon top housing which produces a deeper, fuller sound due to nylon's softer nature. This difference in material fundamentally affects the auditory and tactile experience when using each switch.
Despite the differences in their top housing, both the Bsun Cliff and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro share a common material for their bottom housing: nylon. This similarity ensures that both switches deliver a similar sound profile in terms of depth and resonance when bottoming out. The softer nature of nylon helps absorb sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory feedback. As such, while the tops of the switches may offer contrasting experiences, the nylon bottom housing allows for a consistent foundation of sound and feel across both switch types.
In summary, the interaction between the top and bottom housings illustrates how different materials can contribute to the overall performance of a keyboard switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the Bsun Cliff brings a crisp, clear sound to the top-out experience, while the nylon top of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro provides a deeper sound and feel. However, both switches will produce a familiar and satisfying bottom-out sound due to their shared use of nylon in the bottom housings. Thus, although the switches differ in some aspects, their combination of materials ultimately leads to noteworthy similarities in performance.
Weight
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cliff has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, whereas the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) requires a stronger 50 grams for actuation, making the Cliff feel less strenuous during extended typing or gaming sessions. This lighter force can be ideal for users looking for endurance during lengthy tasks. In terms of bottom out force, the Cliff again maintains a lighter profile at 45 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 62 grams. The increased bottom out force of the Gateron switch may appeal to those who prefer a firmer typing experience, providing a more substantial feel when keys are fully pressed down. Overall, the Cliff is the lighter option, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a heavier touch, catering to contrasting user preferences in keyboard feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Bsun Cliff has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Bsun Cliff switch has a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for gamers who prefer quicker key presses. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), with its longer 4 mm travel, may provide a more substantial feel that some users appreciate for typing or gaming, allowing for a softer landing as they press the keys. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Bsun Cliff would be the preferable choice, whereas those who enjoy a deeper keystroke may favor the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, the Cliff is noted for its crisp sound signature, characterized by clean, clear auditory feedback with each keypress. This makes it suitable for those who enjoy a distinct auditory cue without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) boasts a deeper, richer sound profile that can be described as thocky. This switch produces a low-pitched, bassy response that resonates softly, creating a satisfying auditory experience that complements both gaming and typing. Ultimately, while both switches provide a distinct sound, the Cliff leans towards a sharper and more defined note, whereas the Milky Yellow Pro offers a deeper and more enveloping acoustic environment.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Cliff is known for its medium tactility, providing a clear physical bump that helps typists identify the actuation point without too much resistance. This tactile feedback is helpful for those who prefer a more engaged typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is celebrated for its buttery smoothness, allowing for a fluid and effortless keystroke that appeals to users who favor a seamless typing experience. While the Milky Yellow Pro may struggle with being slightly textured or providing some friction, its overall smoothness is typically prioritized, making it feel less tactile compared to the more pronounced feedback of the Cliff.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer unique sensory experiences suited to different preferences. The Cliff excels with its crisp sound and defined tactile feedback, ideal for those who thrive on clarity and engagement while typing. Meanwhile, the Milky Yellow Pro provides a deeper, thocky sound coupled with a smooth, buttery feel, making it a versatile option for users seeking an all-around switch for various activities. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one values tactile feedback and sharp auditory cues or prefers a smoother typing experience with a rich, resonant sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the intended use of your keyboard. If you appreciate feedback while typing and enjoy a moderately tactile experience alongside a crisp sound, the Cliff could be your best bet. Its light actuation force of 45 grams means rapid key presses are manageable, making it suitable for both gaming and typing sessions where you want that tactile bump to guide your fingers. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a buttery smooth feel combined with a satisfying thocky sound, the Milky Yellow Pro is an excellent choice. With its medium actuation force of 62 grams, it provides a balanced resistance that excels in various activities, from gaming to typing, making it a versatile option for budget-conscious enthusiasts. Ultimately, consider your preferences for tactile feedback and sound profile, as these factors will guide you in selecting the switch that best enhances your typing or gaming experience.
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