Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note the key differences between the two. The Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch that is hailed for its smoothness, low-pitched "thocky" sound, and thick resistance, perfect for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch that lacks a specific defining characteristic. While the Milky Yellow Pro is often praised for being a budget-friendly, versatile option, the Ocean switch does not offer a standout feature. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, while the Outemu Ocean comes with a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Ocean is stiffer, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both housing materials have their own unique characteristics, they both play a significant role in determining the overall sound produced by the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Ocean feature a nylon bottom housing. This means that they both elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic composition of nylon. The bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. As a result, both switches will have a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, despite the difference in their top housing materials.
When using switches with different top and bottom housing materials, such as the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Ocean, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when the key is released. This means that even though the two switches may have different top housing materials, their overall typing experience may still be similar due to the shared nylon bottom housing material.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch. The Milky Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Ocean has an actuation force of 55 grams but an unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro would be the better choice as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Ocean switch, with its heavier actuation force, would provide a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, both switches offer a consistent typing experience with a standard distance travelled when pressing down on a key. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key travel and typing feel when using either switch. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with a moderate travel distance, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a consistent and reliable keyboard input.
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 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 known for producing a deep and rich bassy sound with low-pitched thocky tones, giving users a satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown at this time. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is recognized for its buttery and smooth keystroke experience, providing users with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, some users may appreciate the textured feel of these switches. Conversely, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's feel qualities remain unspecified. It is crucial to consider personal preference when selecting switches based on their feel to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch have their unique characteristics when it comes to sound and feel. While the Milky Yellow Pro stands out for its bassy and thocky sound along with its buttery feel, information about the sound and feel of the Outemu Ocean switch is currently unavailable. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If you are looking for a similar sound or feel to the Milky Yellow Pro, consider experimenting with other linear or tactile switches to achieve desired results.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, consider the type of experience you are looking for. If you value a smooth and versatile switch that excels in both gaming and typing, with a satisfying thocky sound and medium bottom out force, then the Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with unknown bottom out force and characteristics that are not yet widely known about, the Outemu Ocean may be worth exploring for a potentially unique tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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