Durock Light Tactile vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile 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, two popular options are the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Light Tactile switch from Durock is known for its super gentle tactility, offering a refreshing contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found on the market. Typing on these switches provides an angelic tactility accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is considered the quintessential budget switch, boasting a smooth and buttery feel. With its low and "thocky" sound, as well as a satisfyingly thick resistance, the Milky Yellow Pro excels in both gaming and typing, making it an ideal all-purpose switch. While these general attributes provide a starting point for selecting a switch, let's delve deeper into the characteristics and nuances of each switch to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
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 spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing allows for the use of RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) uses a nylon top housing. Typing on switches with nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, regardless of the differences in their top housings, both the Light Tactile and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) share the same sound profile when it comes to their bottom housings.
When it comes to the overall sound experience, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference. The Light Tactile with its polycarbonate top housing will provide a sharper and crisper sound when releasing a key, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing will offer a deeper and fuller sound. Additionally, the Light Tactile's translucency allows for an enhanced visual experience with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a similar deep and full sound profile upon bottoming out the keys. Ultimately, whether one prefers a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and fuller sound will dictate the preference between these two housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, although the Durock Light Tactile is slightly heavier than the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Light Tactile requires an actuation force of 52 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) requires 50 grams. This indicates that both switches are quite similar in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke.
However, when it comes to bottoming out, there is a more noticeable difference between the two switches. The Durock Light Tactile has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is slightly heavier compared to the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)'s 62 grams. This means that the Durock Light Tactile provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push feel when pressing the keys all the way down. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a lighter bottom out force, which may be preferred by individuals who prefer a less intense typing experience.
Considering weight preferences, those who enjoy lighter switches might appreciate both the Durock Light Tactile and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. However, for those seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the Durock Light Tactile with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces may be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision depends on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. When pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches provide a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Light Tactile switch is best known for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature. It offers a more unique experience compared to sharper tactile switches on the market. This switch provides an angelic tactility that is appreciated by users. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is a classic budget switch known for its smoothness and buttery goodness. It excels in both gaming and typing, making it a versatile option. The Milky Yellow Pro has a low, "thocky" sound that is satisfying and thick resistance.
In terms of sound, the Light Tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. It offers a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro has a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. It produces a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, it has a thocky sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Regarding the feel, the Light Tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. It provides a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of this switch are approachable to most users, as its qualities fall in a safe middle-ground zone. It also has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switch is described as buttery and textured. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Some users may appreciate the slight texture that these switches have, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Tactile switch provides a gentle tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, while the Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, both switches offer satisfying qualities that make them suitable for different typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a gentle tactility and a soft, jelly-like sound, the Durock Light Tactile is the way to go. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a more moderate sound profile and a polished typing experience. On the other hand, if you are on a budget and seeking a versatile switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the ideal choice. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, this switch provides a satisfyingly thick resistance and a low-pitched, "thocky" sound. Its buttery feel and textured sensation make it a popular option among budget enthusiasts. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Light Tactile offering a gentle tactility and refined sound, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides versatility and a smooth typing experience.
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