Gateron Melodic vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), a linear switch, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Melodic offers a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback, thanks to features such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is known for its smoothness and versatility, excelling in both gaming and typing scenarios. The Melodic is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Crunchy', while the Milky Yellow Pro is described as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Thocky'. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific usage scenario. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon. The bottom housing's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics will create a duller and rounder sound for both switches. However, where they differ is in their top housing materials. The Melodic features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile.
One significant contrast between the Gateron Melodic and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) lies in the material used for their top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic switch provides a more clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in housing material affects the overall acoustics and feel of the switches, catering to different preferences in sound feedback for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. It is interesting to note how the choice of housing material can impact the user experience and the tactile feedback of typing on these switches.
Another point of comparison between the Gateron Melodic and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the impact of the housing materials on key press sound and feel. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the split between the bottom and top housing materials can influence the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, whereas the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how the choice of housing materials can affect the sound dynamics and tactile feedback of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we find that the Melodic has an actuation force of None grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Melodic at 60 grams and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) at 62 grams. The Melodic is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it easier to type on for extended periods. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a slightly heavier actuation force for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity can provide consistent typing or gaming experiences for users who prefer a specific travel distance. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the two switches, as they both offer a similar feel when pressing down on the keys.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, with a higher-pitched and sharp sound profile reminiscent of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound that delivers a deeper, richer tone during key presses. While the Melodic switch focuses on a cleaner and higher-pitched auditory experience, the Milky Yellow Pro offers a more bass-heavy and mellow sound that is satisfyingly thick and deep.
When it comes to feel, both switches share a buttery typing experience, providing users with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that enhances their overall typing comfort. The Gateron Melodic switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel for an immersive typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switch is characterized as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Melodic switch excels in delivering a resonant and crunchy sound with invigorating feedback, the Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile with a textured typing feel. Depending on your preferred auditory and tactile preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results with either choice.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Melodic clicky switch or the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it all comes down to your preference in sound and feel. If you enjoy a resonant and crunchy typing experience with a buttery and invigorating feel, the Melodic clicky switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassy, low-pitched "thocky" sound with a buttery and textured feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you value most when making your decision.
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