Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Dragon Fruit and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offer distinct qualities to cater to different preferences. The BSUN Dragon Fruit stands out with its tactile nature, providing a pronounced bump at each press thanks to its long pole stem. Paired with a clacky sound signature, this switch offers a lively and engaging typing experience that is both felt and heard distinctly. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch known for its smooth and buttery feel, with a low, "thocky" sound and satisfying resistance. Ideal for both gaming and typing, it is a versatile choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal to different users' preferences; 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of the materials used and the resulting sound profiles. The Dragon Fruit utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing on either switch's bottom housing.
While the Dragon Fruit's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound with a sharp pitch, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound with a rounder tone. The difference in housing materials impacts the overall sound profile and feel of each switch. However, the shared nylon bottom housing between the two switches contributes to a similar typing experience with a consistent deep and full sound profile. The choice of housing material in each component of the switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing on the switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offer contrasting sound profiles based on the stiffness of polycarbonate and the softness of nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dragon Fruit creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) produces a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience with a consistent deep and full sound profile on both switches. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in different components of the switch contributes significantly to the overall typing experience and sound produced.
Weight
The actuation force of the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch is slightly lighter at 45 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch at 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dragon Fruit requires more pressure at 65 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 62 grams. The Dragon Fruit switch provides a medium-heavy feel, while the Milky Yellow Pro offers a medium force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Dragon Fruit, as it has a lighter actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro due to its slightly heavier actuation force. Both switches offer a balance between actuation and bottom out force, providing a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we find that the Dragon Fruit has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Dragon Fruit may be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer depth in their keystrokes. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances and will ultimately provide similar results in terms of key feel, but the slight difference in distance may influence individual preferences when it comes to typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Dragon Fruit has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dragon Fruit for $3.83.
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 BSUN Dragon Fruit switch offers a clacky sound signature, providing a lively and engaging typing experience that is both felt and heard distinctly. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky, giving a deeper, richer sound profile during key presses with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so the final result may vary based on the setup.
When it comes to feel, the Dragon Fruit switch is characterized by being accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a prominent amount of tactility with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery and textured, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the subtle texture for a more tactile typing sensation, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free experience.
Overall, both the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dragon Fruit excels in providing a sharp, definitive bottom-out with significant tactile feedback, paired with a clacky sound signature for a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) stands out for its smoothness, buttery feel, and low, thocky sound, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing purposes. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a sharp, definitive bottom-out with significant tactile feedback and a clacky sound, the Dragon Fruit may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low, "thocky" sound that excels in both gaming and typing, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the type of typing feel and sound profile that best suits your needs.
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