Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Cold Plum stand out. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is lauded for its smooth and buttery feel, ideal for both gaming and typing purposes. Known for its low, "thocky" sound and thick resistance, it serves as a versatile option for budget enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum offers a unique typing experience with its thocky sound profile and full nylon construction. With a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound, this switch is a great choice for those seeking a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. 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
50g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Cold Plum, it is evident that both switches use nylon for their top and bottom housings. This means that they will both offer a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either of these switches.
However, while both switches share the same housing material for their top and bottom housings, the overall feel and sound of the switch can still be influenced by the design and construction of the switch itself. For example, the shape and size of the housing, as well as the way the switch is constructed, can impact the sound and feel of typing on the switch. Therefore, even though the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Cold Plum both utilize nylon housing material, there may still be subtle differences in their overall typing experience due to other factors at play.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Cold Plum will likely come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is looking for. Both switches offer the benefits of nylon housing material, including a deeper and fuller sound profile, but other factors such as the switch design and construction may influence the overall typing experience. Ultimately, users should consider these factors along with their own preferences and needs when deciding between these two switches.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. Both switches have a medium actuation force, but the Cold Plum switch leans towards the medium-heavy side with an actuation force of 60 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) requires 62 grams to bottom out, while the Cold Plum switch requires 70 grams, making it the heavier option for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, if you prefer a lighter typing feel for extended periods of use, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be a suitable choice, while the Cold Plum switch would be ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Cold Plum provides a shallower feel. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Cold Plum due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between them depends on personal preference for keypress feel.
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 Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its bassy and low-pitched thocky sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer a unique thocky sound profile due to their fully nylon construction, delivering a distinct and enjoyable typing experience. While both switches have a thocky sound, the Milky Yellow Pro may offer a slightly deeper and richer sound compared to the Cold Plum.
In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is praised for its buttery and textured keystroke experience, providing a smooth and fluid typing sensation that some users may prefer. The Cold Plum switches, unfortunately, lack specific descriptors for feel, making it difficult to directly compare this aspect between the two switches. However, based on the known qualities of the Milky Yellow Pro, the Cold Plum switches may offer a similarly smooth typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch excels in providing a classic budget option with a smooth and buttery feel, along with a low-pitched thocky sound profile that is well-suited for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, making them a great choice for enthusiasts seeking a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches have their own strengths and can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly switch that excels in both gaming and typing with a smooth and satisfying keystroke, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch would be perfect for enthusiasts looking for a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize smoothness and versatility or a unique sound profile and typing experience in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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