Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Oreo are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct qualities for different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its smoothness and satisfyingly thick resistance. With its low, "thocky" sound, it excels in both gaming and typing, making it an ideal all-purpose switch. On the other hand, the Oreo is a tactile switch that provides a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. It strikes the perfect balance between satisfying keystrokes and a comfortable typing experience. While the Milky Yellow Pro offers a buttery and textured feel, the Oreo provides an accentuated and chirpy typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Oreo differ significantly. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Oreo utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon housings. On the other hand, polycarbonate, the material used in the Oreo's housing, produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Its stiffer plastic contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the Oreo's polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) does not offer this aesthetic feature.
Both the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Oreo have unique qualities in terms of their housing materials. The nylon top and bottom housings of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) create a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Oreo produce a sharper and crisper sound. The contrast between the two is mainly due to the difference in the plastic's hardness. While nylon is relatively softer and absorbs more sound, polycarbonate is stiffer and allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile. Another notable difference is the Oreo's transparent polycarbonate housing, making it visually appealing for users who want to incorporate RGB lighting into their keyboards. In terms of sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out, while the Oreo produces a more distinct sound when releasing a key.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Oreo, it is evident that the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing, regardless of the material used, has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. This means that the distinctive sound profile associated with nylon or polycarbonate will be more pronounced during the act of typing. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing material for a keyboard switch can determine both the tactile feedback and the sound experienced by the user. Regardless of the differences, both the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Oreo offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, some notable differences arise. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Oreo's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is 62 grams, while the Oreo has a bottom out force of 55 grams. Consequently, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a somewhat stronger push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience, whereas the Oreo offers a lighter touch. However, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium to medium-light weight range. Therefore, if one desires similar results from either switch, they can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience, whether that be a lighter touch for prolonged usage or a heavier push for a more satisfying feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch have 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 being traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a consistent experience to the user.
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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its "thocky" and low-pitched sound profile. These switches offer a deep and rich tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switches have a more subtle and mellow sound profile, sometimes described as "chirpy" due to a unique acoustic signature. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is often referred to as "buttery" and provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. These switches deliver a seamless and effortless typing sensation. They are also described as textured, meaning they have noticeable friction when pressed, which some users may prefer. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo switches are characterized as "accented" tactile switches. This means they have a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They provide a prominent bump at the top of the keystroke, giving a crisp and responsive tactile feedback. Some users also describe Oreo switches as "stepped," meaning they have a mild pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation compared to switches with a more pronounced tactile bump.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its low-pitched and "thocky" sound profile, while the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offers a more subtle and mellow sound. In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a buttery and textured typing experience, while the Everglide Oreo offers an accented and stepped tactile feedback. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. With its smooth and buttery goodness, it offers a satisfyingly thick resistance and a low, "thocky" sound. This switch is perfect for those who want a versatile option that performs well in all-purpose scenarios. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that provides a delightful typing experience, the Everglide Oreo is a great choice. It offers a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. The Oreo strikes the perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience with its medium-light tactility. Overall, the Milky Yellow Pro is known for its smoothness and low-pitched, thocky sound, while the Oreo stands out with its accented tactility and subtle, mellow sound profile. Assess your preferences and consider these factors to determine which switch suits your needs and typing style best.
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