Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) are two popular options worth considering. The Ink Box Black is best known for its smooth and creamy feel, evoking a sense of luxury. It produces a clacky, high-pitched sound that resembles the shaking of a spray paint can. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) embraces its status as a classic budget switch without compromising on quality. It boasts a buttery smoothness and a satisfyingly thick resistance, resulting in a low-pitched and textured sound known as "thocky." This makes it a versatile switch suitable for both gaming and typing. While these general characteristics provide a glimpse into the nature of each switch, let's dive deeper and explore further to help you make the best decision based on your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) exhibit some noticeable differences. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This results in a satisfying and clacky sound that is not overly sharp. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. While both switch housings offer distinct sound profiles, the Ink Box Black's top housing provides a slightly thinner and higher-pitched sound compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's nylon top housing.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Ink Box Black and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) showcase contrasting characteristics. The Ink Box Black utilizes the same proprietary INK blend bottom housing as its top housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This aligns with the switch's overall clacky sound. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon bottom housing. Like its top housing counterpart, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Again, the softer nature of nylon allows for increased sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch, the Ink Box Black's bottom housing maintains a slightly sharper and higher-pitched sound, matching its top housing.
In summary, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend housing, both top and bottom, creates a pointed and clacky sound that is relatively high-pitched but not excessively sharp. Conversely, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes nylon housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is duller and rounder. While the two switches differ in their sound characteristics, they both provide satisfying experiences for users. Regardless of the housing material, pressing down on either switch will showcase the qualities of the respective bottom housing, while releasing a key will highlight the impact of the top housing on the sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are noticeable differences between the two. The Ink Box Black has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 50 grams. This means that it requires slightly more force to trigger a keystroke on the Ink Box Black. However, the Milky Yellow Pro has a lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Ink Box Black has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it slightly heavier.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro would be the better choice with its lower actuation force. This would make it easier to type for longer periods of time without experiencing as much fatigue. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black would appeal to individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel, as its heavier bottom out force would provide a more substantial typing experience.
Overall, the Ink Box Black is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Milky Yellow Pro, making it more suitable for individuals who prefer a heavier and more tactile typing feel. However, both switches offer similar results as they are both linear switches, meaning they lack the tactile bump found in switches like the Cherry MX Blue.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have different travel distances. The Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ink Box Black. The Ink Box Black falls into the category of a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers who prefer faster response times. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a bit more depth during key presses and may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Both switches offer their own advantages based on individual preferences, with the Ink Box Black being shorter and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) being the longer option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 Gateron Ink Box Black switches are known for their clacky and high-pitched characteristics. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches are described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky. They offer a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The low-pitched sound and satisfyingly thick resistance of the Milky Yellow Pro switches make them suitable for both gaming and typing, appealing to those looking for a versatile all-purpose switch. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switches are characterized as silky and polished. These switches provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches, on the other hand, offer a buttery and textured feel. They provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, but some users might prefer the noticeable friction that textured switches offer. It's worth mentioning that the smoothness and refinement of a switch's feel can be influenced by factors such as the materials used and factory lubing.
Based on the available information, it's evident that the Gateron Ink Box Black and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches differ in their subjective qualities. The Ink Box Black switches are clacky and high-pitched in sound, while providing a silky and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switches offer a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound, coupled with a buttery and textured feel. Both switches excel in their respective qualities and cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between them would depend on the user's desired sound profile and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a slightly heavier switch with a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Black would be a great choice for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, it provides a satisfying resistance while typing. The clacky and high-pitched sound signature adds to the overall experience, resembling the sound of a spray paint can being shaken. Additionally, the Ink Box Black offers a silky and polished feel, ensuring an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a deeper and bassier sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the switch for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a slightly lighter keystroke. The switch is known for its low-pitched, bass-heavy, and thocky sound, giving a satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" when pressed and released. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) also provides a buttery and textured feel, resulting in a smooth and fluid typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a sharper sound and a silky feel, the Ink Box Black is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a deeper and bassier sound, along with a buttery and textured feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the perfect choice. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing experience to make an informed decision.
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