Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Maple Leaf stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch known for its smoothness, buttery feel, and satisfyingly thick resistance, making it suitable for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf is a tactile switch with a unique feel that provides a more tactile response when pressed. While both switches have their own advantages, such as the Milky Yellow Pro's budget-friendly nature and the Maple Leaf's tactile feedback, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific use cases. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 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
pom
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 terms of housing materials, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Maple Leaf utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its soft and sound-absorbing properties. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon housings. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and tactile feedback due to their shared use of nylon for the top and bottom housings.
However, while both the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Maple Leaf use nylon for their housing materials, they may differ in their overall design and construction. The specific shape, thickness, and internal components of each switch can impact the typing experience and overall feel of the switch. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Maple Leaf may have slightly different sound profiles and tactile responses based on these design differences, even though they both utilize nylon housings. It is important to consider these factors when choosing between the two switches for a customized keyboard build.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Maple Leaf may come down to personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and other factors such as price and availability. Both switches offer a similar typing experience with their nylon top and bottom housings, providing a deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of nylon switches. Whether you prefer one switch over the other may depend on your specific typing preferences and the overall design of your keyboard. Make sure to consider all factors when deciding between these two options for your mechanical keyboard build.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow Pro has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Maple Leaf's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro requires 62 grams while the Maple Leaf needs 65 grams, making the Maple Leaf the heavier of the two. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a balance between lightness for prolonged typing sessions and a more solid typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro offers a more traditional travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf with its shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, so the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you are looking for a more responsive key press, the Maple Leaf may be the better option, while the Milky Yellow Pro may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences.
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 Maple Leaf 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
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its deep, bassy, and thocky sound profile, offering a satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unknown. When it comes to feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is renowned for its buttery and seamless keystroke experience, ensuring a smooth and uniform typing sensation. The texture of the Maple Leaf tactile switch is also unknown.
Considering the information provided, if you prefer a switch with a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound, as well as a buttery and textured feel, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you're looking for a different sound or feel, it would be best to explore other options or seek additional information on the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs. Both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience, so you can expect similar levels of quality and performance based on the factors mentioned. Be sure to test out different switches to find the one that suits you best.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value smoothness, a medium bottom out force, and a satisfying "thocky" sound in your keyboard switch, then the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a budget-friendly tactile switch, the Outemu Maple Leaf may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and enjoy the mechanical keyboard journey ahead!
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