Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options on the market are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Ink Box Pink is renowned for its smoothness and lighter typing feel compared to other switches. Its higher-pitched clack adds a unique touch to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro embodies the epitome of a classic budget switch. It offers a smooth and buttery feel, accompanied by a low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance. This makes it ideal for both gaming and typing, catering to all-purpose use. While these general pointers provide a good starting point, let's delve deeper into the characteristics and qualities of each switch to help you determine the best fit for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$2.33

$2.30 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in their housing materials. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its pointed and higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to the softness of nylon. This creates a clacky sound for the Ink Box Pink, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) yields a rounder and duller sound.

Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches vary in material. The Ink Box Pink incorporates the same proprietary INK blend bottom housing as its top housing, resulting in a similar pointed and high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) employs a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound upon bottoming out.

When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the respective bottom housing become noticeable. The bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. However, upon releasing a key, the sound is influenced more by the top housing material. This differentiation in housing materials enhances the overall typing experience and auditory feedback depending on the specific switch chosen.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there is a subtle difference in their force requirements. Both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that the force needed to trigger a keystroke is the same for both. However, when it comes to bottoming out, there is a slight variation. The Ink Box Pink requires a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) requires a slightly higher bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Ink Box Pink slightly lighter when it comes to bottoming out, whereas the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is slightly heavier. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience or longer periods of typing, the Ink Box Pink may be a better choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel and enjoy a stronger push may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Overall, both switches offer similar actuation forces, ensuring a comparable typing experience in that regard.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it on the shorter side compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the more traditional length. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, so if you are looking for a more responsive experience, the Ink Box Pink with its shorter travel distance might be the better choice for you. However, for those who enjoy a deeper key press, the Milky Yellow Pro with its longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying feeling. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of key depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is best described as clacky and high-pitched. The clacky nature of these switches produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving it a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a more rich and bassy sound, the higher-pitched Ink Box Pink switches may not be your top choice. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound. These switches provide a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The Milky Yellow Pros are also known for their thocky sound, which adds a deep, rich, and satisfying tone to the typing experience. Overall, if you desire a sharper and higher-pitched sound, the Ink Box Pink switch will deliver, while the Milky Yellow Pro switch emphasizes a bassier and more thocky sound.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is described as silky and polished. The silky nature of these switches offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the polished finish of the Ink Box Pink switch contributes to a sleek typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is commonly described as buttery and textured. The buttery nature of these switches provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. While some users might prefer a subtle texture for added feedback, others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Overall, if you prioritize a silky and polished feel, the Ink Box Pink switch is an excellent choice. If you prefer a buttery feel with a touch of texture, the Milky Yellow Pro switch will satisfy your preferences.

Considering the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches offer contrasting subjective qualities. If you are more focused on sound, the Ink Box Pink switch delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a crisp and bright tone when pressed. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound, with a satisfyingly thick resistance and the pleasing thocky quality. When it comes to feel, the Ink Box Pink switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, with exceptional smoothness and minimized resistance. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switch provides a buttery and textured feel, with a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. Considering these distinctions, it is clear that each switch caters to different preferences and typing styles. By carefully selecting the switch that aligns with your desired sound and feel, you can achieve a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and light typing experience with a higher-pitched clack sound, then the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched, "thocky" sound and a satisfyingly thick resistance, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be the way to go. Both switches offer a medium bottom out force, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) Linear

$2.33

$2.30 per 10

Learn more