Keygeek Keylin vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin 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, two noteworthy contenders are the Keygeek Keylin and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), both of which are linear switches favored by different segments of the mechanical keyboard community. The Keygeek Keylin stands out for its innovative molds, providing a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, ideal for users who prioritize a refined feel and an elevated sound quality. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro excels as an all-rounder switch, celebrated for its smooth, buttery action and satisfying thocky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for both gaming and typing, especially for budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking performance without breaking the bank. Each switch offers unique advantages tailored to individual preferences, with the Keylin leaning towards premium sensations and the Milky Yellow Pro providing an accessible yet fulfilling experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches are notably similar, as both utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This widespread choice of material is a hallmark in mechanical keyboard switches, prized for its acoustic properties. The nylon composition in both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile that keyboard enthusiasts often seek. As nylon is a softer plastic when compared to other materials, it effectively absorbs sound waves, leading to a muffled and rounded auditory experience. Consequently, users can expect a comparable typing sound and feel when using both the Keylin and Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches.
In discussing the individual impact of the nylon housings, it's important to note that both the Keylin and Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches will provide similar bottom-out feedback and auditory characteristics. Since both switches feature nylon in both their top and bottom housings, the shared attributes will manifest in how each switch behaves during typing. The bottom housing will predominantly affect the feel one experiences while bottoming out, while the top housing will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. This synchronization between the two materials results in a cohesive auditory and tactile experience across both switches.
Despite their similarities, subtle differences can emerge based on other design factors such as the spring or the stem used in these switches. However, in terms of the housing materials alone, users can anticipate almost identical performance characteristics, particularly related to sound and responsiveness. If the characteristics of the housing materials themselves were to differ, one might find distinctions in the overall typing experience; however, since both switches are constructed from nylon, keyboard enthusiasts can expect equivalently satisfying performance throughout their typing sessions with either option.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, significant differences can be observed in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Keylin switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch, which can enhance comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a firmer push that offers a more substantial typing experience favored by those who appreciate a stronger feedback from their switches. Thus, the Keylin switch is better suited for those who prioritize comfort and longevity, while the Milky Yellow Pro caters to users who enjoy a heavier feel in their keystrokes. Ultimately, these differences highlight how varying actuation and bottom out forces can affect user preferences and typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, the Keylin has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) measures at 4 mm. This makes the Keylin the shorter option and the Milky Yellow Pro the longer one. For users who prioritize responsiveness, particularly in gaming, the Keylin's shorter travel distance may be more appealing, as it allows for quicker key actuation. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro offers a more substantial feel with its longer travel distance, which may satisfy users who prefer a more traditional and deeper keypress experience. Ultimately, the choice will depend on individual preferences regarding tactile feedback and actuation speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 Keylin linear switch is celebrated for its rich acoustics, providing a pleasing auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is characterized by its low-pitched, thocky sound profile, delivering a deeper and more resonant keypress. The Milky Yellow’s sound is bassy, offering a satisfying “thud” that many enthusiasts find appealing, particularly in a budget switch. Sound quality is subjective, and the final acoustic experience will also be influenced by the choice of keyboard case and keycaps used, but both switches offer distinct auditory signatures, with the Keylin leaning towards a more premium resonance compared to the Milky Yellow's classic, bass-heavy sound.
When it comes to feel, the Keylin switch is acknowledged for its exceptional smoothness, contributing to a premium typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is renowned for its buttery keystroke, which offers fluidity and uniformity as fingers glide across the keys. However, the Milky Yellow also presents some texture, which might introduce a subtle friction that distinguishes it from the utterly smooth experience of the Keylin. While both switches are designed for a comfortable typing feel, Keylin emphasizes a completely fluid motion, whereas the Milky Yellow offers its unique mixture of smoothness with a hint of texture.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Keylin and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, with the Keylin offering rich acoustics and a smooth typing experience, while the Milky Yellow Pro excels with its thocky sound and buttery keystrokes. Depending on individual preferences, users might gravitate towards the premium qualities of the Keylin or appreciate the classic charm of the Milky Yellow Pro. Overall, both switches promise a gratifying typing experience, be it in gaming or everyday tasks, with sound and tactile response serving as the defining factors in making a choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Keygeek Keylin linear switches and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and use cases. If you favor a lighter touch and a premium typing experience characterized by exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, the Keylin switch is the way to go. Its lower bottom-out force of 48 grams may provide you with a faster actuation, making it particularly appealing for fast typists or those who enjoy a tactile typing experience without substantial resistance. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that excels in both gaming and typing, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) might be your best choice. With a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, you can expect a satisfyingly thick resistance paired with a "thocky" sound profile that enhances your typing experience. This switch is ideal for anyone who appreciates a deeper, bassy sound and a silky-smooth keystroke. In summary, choose the Keylin for a premium touch and feel, and go for the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for a versatile, budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on performance.
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