Dareu Holly vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Holly is a tactile switch known for its medium 50g actuation force and distinct sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience for users. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch that is praised for its smoothness, low "thocky" sound, and satisfyingly thick resistance, making it versatile for both gaming and typing purposes. While the Holly caters to those looking for a tactile typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro appeals to budget enthusiasts seeking a smooth and all-purpose switch. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offer distinct characteristics that ultimately contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Holly's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its relatively stiff nature that enhances resonance. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their unique qualities, the polycarbonate of the Holly is better suited for RGB lighting effects due to its translucency, whereas the nylon of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a classic typing experience with a different sound profile.
The differences in the bottom housing materials further emphasize the unique characteristics of each switch. Both the Holly and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for a more rounded and duller sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, even if the top housing materials may differ. Whether it's the Holly's polycarbonate top housing or the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in switches like the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) contributes to a unique sound profile that reflects the characteristics of each material. While the Holly's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and more resonant sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches share the benefits of nylon bottom housings, which absorb sound and enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we can see that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the bottom out force differs between the two. The Holly switch does not specify a bottom out force, while the Milky Yellow Pro has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Milky Yellow Pro the heavier option when comparing the two.
Considering the weight of the switch is essential as it affects the typing experience. Lighter switches like the Holly may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a consistent tactile or linear feel when pressing down on the keys. They provide a similar level of key travel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users. Therefore, whether you opt for the Dareu Holly or the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro, you can anticipate a similar typing experience in terms of key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, creating a distinct typing experience that stands out. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch produces a low-pitched, thocky sound that is deep and satisfying. Both switches provide different auditory experiences, with the Holly being more lively and the Milky Yellow Pro offering a quieter, bass-heavy tone.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Holly switch's tactile feel is not explicitly described in the provided information, leaving it open to interpretation. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its buttery and smooth keystroke experience, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation. This difference in feel can greatly impact the typing experience, with the Holly potentially providing more tactile feedback and the Milky Yellow Pro offering a smoother keypress.
Taking all the available information into account, it is evident that the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a chirpy and clacky sound profile with potentially more tactile feedback, the Holly switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched, thocky sound and a buttery smooth keypress, the Milky Yellow Pro switch is a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, so trying both out in person may be the best way to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences the most.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a unique typing experience with a balance of chirpy and clacky sound elements, then the Holly switch with its medium actuation force of 50g would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing with a smooth and buttery feel, then the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its medium bottom out force of 62g is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal preference in sound, feel, and intended usage, so choose the switch that best aligns with your typing needs and preferences.
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