Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches but offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro is renowned for its smooth and buttery feel, accompanied by a low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, making it ideal for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean switch remains a mystery in terms of its standout features or attributes. While the Milky Yellow Pro excels in being a classic budget switch loved by enthusiasts for its versatility, the Silent Ocean leaves much to be desired in terms of defining qualities. 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
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
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 Silent Ocean, we can see a stark difference in the material used for their top housing. The Milky Yellow Pro features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction is crucial for those who value sound quality in their typing experience, as the choice between nylon and polycarbonate can significantly impact the overall sound produced by the switches.
On the other hand, when examining the bottom housing of these switches, both the Milky Yellow Pro and the Silent Ocean utilize nylon as the material. This means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon's softness helps absorb sound and create a rounder sound. While the top housing may differ in material and consequently in sound profile, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both switches. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that the overall tactile experience of pressing down on the keys will be quite similar between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Silent Ocean comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile. If you prefer a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder tone, the Milky Yellow Pro with its nylon top and bottom housing may be more suitable for your typing needs. Conversely, if you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound with a clear and resonant tone, the Silent Ocean with its polycarbonate top housing could be the better option. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a consistent typing experience due to the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is clear that the Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Silent Ocean. However, the bottom out force of the Milky Yellow Pro is lighter at 62 grams, while the Silent Ocean requires a heavier force of 65 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall within the medium range for actuation force, but the Silent Ocean leans towards the medium-heavy side for bottom out force. The Milky Yellow Pro would be better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, while the Silent Ocean would be a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the travel distance between these two switches, it is evident that users will experience a consistent and similar keypress feel with either switch due to their identical travel distances. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) or the Outemu Silent Ocean, you can expect to get similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky characteristics, providing a deep and satisfying sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. Keep in mind that sound is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycap material.
When it comes to the feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is often described as buttery and textured, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience with a noticeable friction when pressed. The Silent Ocean switch's feel is unspecified, making it challenging to make a direct comparison between the two switches in this regard. The absence of information on the Silent Ocean's feel makes it difficult for users to gauge how it may differ from the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch stands out for its smoothness, satisfying resistance, and versatile performance in both gaming and typing scenarios, earning it a reputation as a budget-friendly all-purpose switch. While limited information is available about the Outemu Silent Ocean switch, it's important to consider factors beyond sound and feel, such as actuation force and durability, when making a decision between these two switches. Ultimately, for users seeking a reliable budget option with a proven track record, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may prove to be a solid choice.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you should choose the Milky Yellow Pro if you are looking for a budget-friendly switch with a smooth and buttery keystroke experience that excels in both gaming and typing. The low, "thocky" sound and satisfying resistance make it a versatile choice for all-purpose use. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean may be a better option if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing needs.
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