PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Milk Tea linear switch stands out for its high-pitched yet muted sound, ideal for those who appreciate a balance between presence and subtlety during extensive typing sessions. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro embodies a classic budget switch with its smoothness, low "thocky" sound, and satisfying resistance, making it versatile for both gaming and typing purposes. While these general descriptions provide a glimpse into what each switch offers, diving deeper into their specific attributes will help you determine the best switch for your mechanical keyboard needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37.5g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
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
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both aim to create a deeper and fuller sound profile for users. The Milk Tea uses a POM top and bottom housing, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing. POM is known for its unique sound profile that is relatively muted but deep, while nylon is praised for its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite using different materials, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of creating a pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum.
However, the choice between POM and nylon housing materials can impact how the sound and feel of the switch are perceived. The POM housing of the Milk Tea may provide a slightly more muted sound compared to the nylon housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), which absorbs more sound. This difference in sound profile may affect users' preferences depending on whether they prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a softer, rounder sound. Additionally, the impact of the housing material on the switch's bottom-out sound and feel may vary between the two switches, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in this aspect.
Overall, the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) showcase the importance of material choice in creating a unique sound profile for mechanical switches. While both switches aim to deliver a pleasing and deep sound, the use of POM versus nylon housing materials can lead to subtle differences in sound quality and feel. Users looking for a switch with a slightly muted sound may prefer the POM housing of the Milk Tea, while those seeking a fuller and rounder sound may lean towards the nylon housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch to the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Milky Yellow Pro. The Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push. This difference in force may cater to different preferences, with some opting for a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier force for a more pronounced typing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Milk Tea switch. The difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the typing experience and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Milk Tea switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique blend of high-pitched tones with a muted essence, creating a delicate balance between presence and subtlety. It is known for its clacky and resonant qualities, providing a sharp and crisp sound experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is characterized by a low, "thocky" sound that is smooth and buttery, making it ideal for both gaming and typing. The sound profile of the Milk Tea switch leans towards a higher pitch, while the Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a deeper and richer bass tone. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences tailored to different preferences in sound.
When it comes to feel, the Milk Tea switch is described as polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Conversely, the Milky Yellow Pro switch is known for its buttery and textured feel, providing a seamless and fluid keystroke experience with noticeable friction for users who prefer a bit of resistance. The Milk Tea switch focuses on delivering a sleek and refined typing feel, while the Milky Yellow Pro switch prioritizes a smooth and uniform typing sensation with a touch of texture. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying tactile experience tailored to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milk Tea switch provides a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched and clacky sound, complemented by a polished and silky typing feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switch delivers a low, "thocky" sound with a buttery and textured feel, offering a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, richer tone, both switches cater to different preferences and are suitable for various typing needs. Ultimately, the choice between the Milk Tea and Milky Yellow Pro switches will depend on individual preferences in sound and feel, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light bottom-out force and a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched sound, the Milk Tea may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you prioritize a polished and silky typing feel, the Milk Tea switch is designed for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force and a smooth, buttery keystroke with a low, thocky sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) might be the better option. Furthermore, if you enjoy a more buttery and textured typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch offers a satisfying typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired sound profile and typing feel to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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