Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), two popular mechanical keyboard switches with their own unique characteristics. The Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that has gained a loyal following within the keyboard community. Renowned for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clacky sound, this switch provides a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, we have the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), another linear switch from Gateron that is known for its exceptional value for money. With a low, "thocky" sound and a buttery smooth feel, this switch excels in both gaming and typing scenarios. It's no wonder that budget enthusiasts often prefer these switches as their go-to option. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these general characteristics to help you make the best switch decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of their sound profiles. The proprietary INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, which is often described as clacky. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro produces a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone. Therefore, while both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the Ink Black V2 will have a sharper and more pointed sound, while the Milky Yellow Pro will have a deeper and fuller sound.
Similarly, the differences in the bottom housing materials also contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 complements the top housing, resulting in a pointed and thin sound when bottoming out the keys. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Milky Yellow Pro contributes to a deeper sound profile, enhancing the fullness and richness of the typing experience. Consequently, the bottom housing material of each switch plays a significant role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel, with the Ink Black V2 offering a sharper and thinner sensation, while the Milky Yellow Pro provides a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing the keys.
Ultimately, the comparison between the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro reveals the distinct sound profiles they offer. While the Ink Black V2 utilizes its proprietary INK blend for a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Milky Yellow Pro employs nylon for a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience, and the differences in the housing materials ensure that users can choose between a sharper and relatively higher-pitched sound or a deeper and rounder sound. Therefore, while they offer different sound profiles, both switches can provide a similar level of typing enjoyment.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ink Black V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 50 grams. This means that for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Ink Black V2 would be the better choice. However, both switches have relatively similar bottom out forces, with the Ink Black V2 at 70 grams and the Milky Yellow Pro at 62 grams. This suggests that when it comes to pressing the keys all the way down, both switches provide a comparable experience. Considering weight is important for different preferences; those who prefer lighter switches for longer typing periods or extended gaming sessions may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro, while those who enjoy a heavier feel for a more satisfying typing experience may opt for the Ink Black V2. Overall, while the Ink Black V2 offers a heavier actuation force, the two switches provide similar results when bottoming out.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch are the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, the results obtained from the Ink Black V2 and the Milky Yellow Pro switches will be similar.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches have some similarities in terms of sound characteristics. Both switches are described as having a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. This makes them suitable for those who prefer a more mellow and bass-heavy sound. However, there are also notable differences. The Ink Black V2 is known for its unique chirpy sound, which sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is described as thocky, meaning it produces a satisfyingly deep and rich sound when pressed.
When it comes to feel, the Ink Black V2 is described as having a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic suggests a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable, as it falls within a safe middle-ground zone. The polished finish of the switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a buttery and textured typing sensation. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. The switch is designed to provide a uniform and consistent typing sensation. However, the switch is also described as having a textured or scratchy feel, indicating that it may have noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can be preferred by some users, while others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Black V2 is known for its low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound, while providing a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a low-pitched, bassy, and thocky sound, with a buttery and textured feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences, such as the desired sound profile and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams and a smooth downstroke with a rich clack, then the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is the one for you. It offers a low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound profile, which sets it apart from other switches. In terms of feel, it provides a mild and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams and a buttery smooth and fluid keystroke experience, then the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the perfect choice. It has a low-pitched, bassy, and thocky sound profile, resulting in a deep, rich, and satisfying sound during key presses. The Milky Yellow Pro also offers a textured typing experience, which some users prefer for a subtle friction sensation.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) comes down to personal preferences. If you value a heavier bottom-out force, a smooth downstroke with a rich clack, and a mild and polished typing experience, then go for the Ink Black V2. However, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force, a buttery smooth and fluid keystroke experience, and a low-pitched, bassy, and thocky sound profile with a textured feel, then the Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go.
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