Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile 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, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offer distinct experiences for different preferences. The Ice King Tactile is revered for its blend of creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, offering a uniquely satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is known for its smoothness, low sound, and thick resistance, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing. While the Ice King Tactile excels in providing a luxurious and refined typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro stands out as a reliable budget-friendly option for enthusiasts. 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
58g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, both the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon as the main housing material for their switches. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon also contributes to a duller and rounder sound when typing, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches. With similar top and bottom housing materials, users can expect consistent sound profiles and typing feels across the entire switch for both the Ice King Tactile and the Milky Yellow Pro.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material for both the top and bottom, the design aspects of the housing can still impact the overall typing experience. The Ice King Tactile and the Milky Yellow Pro may vary in terms of the shape and thickness of their housing components, which can influence the sound produced when typing. Additionally, the structural integrity of the housing can affect the durability and longevity of the switch. Users may find slight differences in the sound and feel of these switches based on the specific design choices made for the housing components, despite the common use of nylon as the housing material.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offer similar typing experiences due to their shared use of nylon as the housing material. The deeper and fuller sound profiles produced by these switches are a result of nylon's ability to absorb more sound compared to other plastics. While there may be variations in the design and construction of the housing components between the two switches, the overall typing feel and sound quality are likely to be consistent for users. Whether you prefer the Ice King Tactile or the Milky Yellow Pro, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience with their nylon housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 58 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch with 50 grams, making the Ice King Tactile slightly heavier. Both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Ice King Tactile at 68 grams and the Milky Yellow Pro at 62 grams. The Ice King Tactile switch provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a medium level of force. The difference in weight between the two switches may impact the typing experience for users who prefer a lighter or heavier touch. Those who prefer lighter switches may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, understanding the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch can help users determine which one best suits their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is 3.5mm, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Durock Ice King Tactile switch. The shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is characterized by a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, with a satisfyingly thocky tone that resembles a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is lauded for its silky and frictionless typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless keypress. Additionally, it is described as having a stepped feel, providing a mild tactile bump that distinguishes pre-travel and post-travel stages. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch, on the other hand, is touted for its buttery and textured keystroke, delivering a smooth and uniform typing sensation with noticeable friction for those who prefer a bit of texture in their switches.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Tactile and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches offer unique and contrasting typing experiences. While the Ice King Tactile excels in providing a superbly smooth and tactile typing experience with its subdued sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) impresses with its budget-friendly yet buttery smooth keystrokes and bass-heavy, thocky sound. Depending on personal preference for sound, tactility, and smoothness, either switch can cater to different typing needs and preferences, ensuring that both newcomers and enthusiasts can find a switch that suits their individual tastes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile bump and a creamy smooth typing experience, then the Ice King Tactile would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a budget-friendly switch that offers a smooth, buttery typing sensation suitable for both gaming and regular typing tasks, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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