Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two noteworthy options are the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King. The Milky Yellow Pro is renowned for its classic budget switch status and excels in both gaming and typing. With a low, "thocky" sound and thick resistance, it offers a satisfying experience for any use. On the other hand, the Oil King stands out with its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of snapping a dark chocolate bar. While both switches share qualities such as being low-pitched and buttery, they also have their unique characteristics. The Milky Yellow Pro is known for its textured and bassy feel, while the Oil King presents itself as creamy, silky, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King share similar nylon top housings. This material choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on both switches. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, whether you use the Milky Yellow Pro or the Oil King, you can expect a similar sound experience due to their shared nylon top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ. The Milky Yellow Pro features a nylon bottom housing, while the Oil King boasts Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. The nylon material in the bottom housing of the Milky Yellow Pro continues to enhance the deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the INK blend in the Oil King's bottom housing creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This specific blend produces a clacky sound that is satisfying to many users.
When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's qualities become apparent. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. So, the nylon bottom housing in the Milky Yellow Pro and the INK blend bottom housing in the Oil King will deliver distinct tactile sensations. However, when releasing a key, the characteristics of the top housing come into play. As both switches share a nylon top housing, the sound when letting go of a key will be similar for both the Milky Yellow Pro and the Oil King.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King feature similar nylon top housings that create a deep and full sound profile, their bottom housings differ. The nylon bottom housing in the Milky Yellow Pro contributes to a round sound experience, while the proprietary INK blend in the Oil King offers a clacky sound. These variations result in distinct tactile sensations when pressing down on the switches. Nonetheless, the nylon top housings ensure a similar sound when releasing the keys of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Milky Yellow Pro is slightly lighter at 50 grams, while the Oil King requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, but the Oil King leans towards the medium-heavy side.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro requires 62 grams of force to fully depress the key, which is again in the medium range. On the other hand, the Oil King has a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in this aspect as well. Therefore, the Oil King switch is slightly heavier than the Milky Yellow Pro in both actuation and bottom out forces.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro would be a suitable choice as it allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial and forceful keystroke, the Oil King's heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying push feel. It is important to consider personal preferences and the intended use of the keyboard when selecting between these switches.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel. Whether you choose the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) or the Oil King, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile experience during typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King linear switches offer a deep and bass-heavy tone. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its "thocky" sound, which produces a satisfyingly thick and low-pitched sound during key presses. Similarly, the Oil King also provides a low-pitched and bass-heavy sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used. Therefore, using either switch will result in similar deep and bass-heavy sound qualities.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery and textured. This means that it offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Some users may also appreciate the subtle texture that adds a bit of friction to the switch. On the other hand, the Oil King switch is described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished. It offers an exceptionally smooth and buttery typing experience, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. The switch's polished finish further enhances the smoothness and provides reduced friction during key travel. Overall, both switches offer a highly satisfying and smooth typing experience, with the Oil King switch being slightly more refined and polished in feel.
Taking all the available information into account, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King linear switches excel in their own ways. They both offer a deep and bass-heavy sound profile during key presses, making them suitable for those who prefer a richer sound. In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a buttery and textured typing experience, while the Oil King offers a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of smoothness. However, it is important to note that regardless of the chosen switch, both will provide a highly enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be an ideal choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a satisfyingly thick resistance and a low, "thocky" sound profile. The Milky Yellow Pro provides a smooth and buttery typing experience, making it versatile and perfect for all-purpose use. It is the go-to switch for budget enthusiasts.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be a great option. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams, it provides a medium-heavy feel. The Oil King delivers a low-pitched and bassy sound that is complemented by its creamy and silky typing experience. The switch glides effortlessly and smoothly, offering a refined and enjoyable typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you value a versatile switch with a medium bottom out force and a thocky sound, the Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go. However, if you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and buttery typing experience with a slightly heavier feel and a low-pitched, bassy sound, the Oil King would be the better option for you. Consider your preferred sound and feel to make an informed decision.
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