Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the SP-Star Polaris Gray are both linear switches that offer their own unique qualities. The Milky Yellow Pro is known for its smoothness and buttery goodness, providing a satisfyingly thick resistance and a low, "thocky" sound. This switch is often praised for excelling in both gaming and typing, making it a versatile choice for all-purpose use. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is favored by those who prefer a bouncy typing experience. Its clean and clacky sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. While both switches share characteristics such as being low-pitched and thocky, the Milky Yellow Pro leans towards a bassy and textured feel, while the Polaris Gray has a more neutral and polished touch. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches differ in their housing materials. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Polaris Gray has a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. These contrasting materials result in distinct sound profiles when typing. The nylon housing of the Milky Yellow Pro produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its relatively softer composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder tone. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Gray yields a sharper and crisper sound, characterized by its higher-pitched resonance. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic advantage to the Polaris Gray switch.
While the top and bottom housings vary between the two switches, they share some similarities in terms of their housing materials. Both the nylon and polycarbonate housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile of a switch. They both result in a clearer and resonant sound, although achieved through different means. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller tone, while polycarbonate's stiffer composition creates a sharper and more defined sound. Therefore, if you're seeking a switch with better sound clarity, both options can deliver satisfying results.
When considering the tactile experience of typing, the bottom housing material plays a crucial role. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. However, when releasing a key, the top housing material becomes more influential on the sound produced. Therefore, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the SP-Star Polaris Gray may depend on personal preference regarding the specifics of the typing experience, such as keypress feedback and sound during release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it can be seen that they have similar characteristics but also some differences. The Milky Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Polaris Gray's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a medium level of actuation force.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro requires 62 grams of force to bottom out, which is again in the medium range. In comparison, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier or medium-heavy.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro switch. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Polaris Gray switch, as it has a slightly heavier bottom out force.
In conclusion, while the actuation force is only known for the Milky Yellow Pro switch, it can be stated that both switches offer a medium actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Polaris Gray switch is slightly heavier than that of the Milky Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and desired weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent and equal distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures a consistent typing experience regardless of whether you choose the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) or the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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) switch is well-known for its low, "thocky" sound profile. It offers a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This makes it a popular choice for those who appreciate a satisfying and immersive sound experience during typing or gaming. Similarly, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch also produces a low-pitched and thocky sound, providing a deep and rich tone when pressed and released. While both switches share a similar sound profile, the actual sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is often described as buttery, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This switch provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch offers a more mild and approachable typing experience. It falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, where the sound and feel are gentle and not overly pronounced. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switch is polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This adds to the overall sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches offer their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. They share similarities in producing a low-pitched and thocky sound, which provides a deep and rich tone when pressed and released. The Milky Yellow Pro switch stands out with its buttery feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Meanwhile, the Polaris Gray switch provides a more mild and approachable typing experience, with its polished finish contributing to reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on individual preferences, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a classic budget switch that offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the way to go. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it strikes a balance between gaming and typing. Known for its low-pitched and thocky sound profile, the Milky Yellow Pro provides a deep and rich sound during key presses. In terms of feel, it offers a buttery and effortless keystroke experience, ensuring a seamless and uniform typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bouncy typing experience, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is worth considering. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a more pronounced typing resistance. The Polaris Gray switch produces a low-pitched and thocky sound, similar to the Milky Yellow Pro. In terms of feel, it provides a mild and polished typing experience, making it approachable to most users.
Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) or the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch depends on your personal preference for typing resistance and sound profile. Both switches excel in their own ways and are suitable for different individuals and use cases. So, take your time to consider your typing preferences and make an informed decision based on what best aligns with your needs. Happy mechanical keyboarding!
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