Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Kailh Plum are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer different experiences for users. The Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch known for its smoothness and buttery feel. With a low, "thocky" sound and satisfying resistance, it excels in both gaming and typing, making it a versatile option. On the other hand, the Plum switch stands out with its unique tactile experience. While it doesn't have a significant tactile bump like other switches, its weightiness adds a sense of uniqueness. The sound profile of the Plum switch is neutral and enjoyable. Both switches have their own merits, and depending on your preferences, you can choose the one that suits you best. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision in finding the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
The housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Kailh Plum differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Milky Yellow Pro features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Plum utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer polycarbonate plastic allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches that incorporate RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches use nylon as the material of choice. This classic housing material is responsible for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. The relatively softer nylon plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of the bottom housings, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Kailh Plum offer similar results.
It is important to note that when the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and the bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is primarily influenced by the bottom housing material. Conversely, the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material in a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience and the resulting sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and light touch for keystrokes. The bottom out force for this switch is 62 grams, which falls in the medium range. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch does not provide information about its actuation force. However, it does have a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). This difference in bottom out force gives the Plum a more pronounced and substantial typing experience.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be the ideal choice as it allows for longer and more comfortable typing sessions. Its actuation force ensures swift keystrokes without much resistance. On the contrary, for individuals who enjoy a more forceful keystroke, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would provide a satisfying typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. The extra resistance on the Plum switch would give typists a greater sense of key response and enhance their overall typing feel.
In summary, while both switches have medium actuation forces, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the lighter option with a bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the Kailh Plum tactile switch is slightly heavier, boasting a bottom out force of 70 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and whether one desires a lighter and more effortless keystroke or a heavier and more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro falls into the more traditional range of 4.0 mm, whereas the Plum is on the shallower side with 3.6 mm. These distances can play a significant role in the typing or gaming experience. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as they provide faster response times, allowing for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, preferring switches with a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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) is well-known for its smoothness and satisfyingly thick resistance, providing a smooth and buttery keystroke experience. It has a low-pitched sound with a deep and rich "thocky" tone, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. The Plum switch, on the other hand, offers a unique feel with its weightiness but without a significant tactile bump. It has a neutral sound profile that is enjoyable and pleasing to the ear. Overall, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro excels in both gaming and typing, making it a versatile switch suitable for various purposes. The Plum switch stands out with its unique feel and neutral sound profile, providing a different typing experience. Both switches offer their own qualities and can be considered suitable options based on personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the one for you. With its smooth and buttery feel, low, "thocky" sound, and satisfying resistance, it is perfect for all-purpose use. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique feel and sound, the Kailh Plum tactile switch might be your best choice. It offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on your personal preference for sound and feel.
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