Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, both linear mechanical keyboard switches, a few key differences stand out. The Milky Yellow Pro is a classic budget switch known for its smoothness, low-pitched "thocky" sound, and satisfying resistance, making it versatile for gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean lacks specific standout characteristics but provides a silent typing experience without the risk of dust infiltration. While the Milky Yellow Pro is a favorite among budget enthusiasts for its all-purpose performance, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Dustproof Silent Ocean, it's clear that both switches feature nylon bottom housings. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, with a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon plastic. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes nylon, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean utilizes polycarbonate. This results in a difference in sound profile, with the Milky Yellow Pro offering a duller and rounder sound, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a sharper and crisper sound.
The choice of top housing material between nylon and polycarbonate significantly impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) absorbs more sound, creating a deeper sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean produces a more resonant and clear sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Silent Ocean allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch that the Milky Yellow Pro lacks with its opaque nylon top housing. Despite both switches sharing a nylon bottom housing, the choice of top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound and visual appeal.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean offer distinct typing experiences. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the difference in top housing material results in contrasting sound profiles. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean with its polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound along with the added feature of RGB lighting. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, we can see some differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Milky Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, but lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean. This difference in force may result in a slightly different typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Dustproof Silent Ocean for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the heavier bottom out force of the Milky Yellow Pro for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the weight of the key press.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it is clear that the Milky Yellow Pro has a longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a shorter travel distance at 3.3 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro offers a more traditional and deeper key press experience, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a quicker and shallower typing experience, perfect for gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
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 Dustproof Silent Ocean 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) linear switch is favored for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky characteristics, providing a deep and rich typing experience. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch is not available, so it's unclear how it compares in terms of sound. However, it's worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, users describe the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) as giving a buttery and textured typing experience, emphasizing its smooth and fluid keystrokes. Unfortunately, details on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch are not provided in the available information. Without this information, it's difficult to make direct comparisons between the two switches in terms of feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch stands out for its smoothness, satisfying resistance, and versatile performance, making it a popular choice among budget enthusiasts for both gaming and typing. While the specific sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch remain unknown, it's important to consider individual preferences and the overall typing experience when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches are likely to offer similar results in terms of sound and feel based on their linear switch design, but personal preference and usage requirements should guide the final decision.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and enjoy a switch with a smooth and buttery feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a silent option, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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