KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctive clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, resulting in resonant audio feedback. Additionally, its lengthened spring provides a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is the epitome of a classic budget switch, embodying smoothness and buttery goodness. It offers a low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, making it suitable for both gaming and typing. These qualities have made the Milky Yellows a go-to switch for budget enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of the material used for the top and bottom housings. The Cream Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cream Yellow creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
Regarding the bottom housings, both the Cream Yellow and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) employ nylon as the material. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches offer a similar sound profile when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the sound when releasing a key, the top housing plays a more significant role. This means that the sound you hear when you let go of a key will differ between the Cream Yellow and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) due to their different top housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cream Yellow will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) will result in a deeper and fuller sound upon key release.
In summary, the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) generate contrasting sound profiles due to their different materials. The Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches have similar sound profiles for the bottom-out sound and feel due to the use of nylon for the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that the amount of force needed to trigger a keystroke is equal for both of them. This ensures consistent responsiveness during typing or gaming.
However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a slight variation between the two switches. The Cream Yellow has a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly higher bottom out force of 62 grams. This indicates that the Milky Yellow Pro provides a slightly firmer and more substantial typing experience compared to the Cream Yellow.
Considering weight as an important factor, individuals seeking a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions may find both options suitable as they possess the same actuation force. The ability to type comfortably for longer durations is complemented by the lighter actuation force of these switches. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) due to its slightly higher bottom out force.
In summary, both the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches offer a similar actuation force, ensuring consistent responsiveness. The Cream Yellow has a lighter bottom out force, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a slightly heavier bottom out force, resulting in a firmer typing experience. The choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of the switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we can see that the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Cream Yellow falls on the shallower end of the spectrum, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is closer to the traditional travel distance.
In terms of preferences, gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Cream Yellow with its shorter travel distance. This allows for quicker presses and potentially better gameplay. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more "hearty" feel when pressing down on a key may find the longer travel distance of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) to be more satisfying.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Both options offer their own advantages, and it is important to consider factors such as typing speed, comfort, and tactile feedback when making a decision.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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
In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow switch produces a distinctively clacky sound. When pressed, it emits a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch offers a different sound profile. It is described as bassy, with a lower frequency range that provides a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Additionally, it has a low-pitched and thocky tone, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Cream Yellow switch provides a uniquely bouncy typing experience. It features a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem, which contribute to a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. When pressed, the keys have a lively feel and provide rebound. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery and textured. The buttery feel indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. However, some users may prefer a slight texture or friction when pressing the keys, which can be found in these switches.
In conclusion, the Cream Yellow and Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches offer different subjective qualities. The Cream Yellow is known for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, providing a distinct audio feedback with a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch offers a low-pitched and thocky sound, along with a buttery and textured feel, providing a smooth and friction-free typing experience. Both switches are popular choices in the mechanical keyboard community, offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches would depend on individual preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a distinctively clacky sound and a uniquely bouncy typing feel, then the Cream Yellow switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring, it delivers resonant audio feedback and a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be the perfect all-purpose switch for you. Known for its smoothness and buttery goodness, it offers a low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance. Additionally, if you prefer a deep and rich sound profile during key presses, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a bassy and low-pitched tone. Finally, if you prioritize a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a buttery and uniform typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the Cream Yellow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) will depend on your preferences for sound and feel.
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