Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options worth considering are the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Milky Yellow Pro is known for its smoothness and buttery goodness, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing. With its low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, it's no wonder that budget enthusiasts often gravitate towards this switch. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple offers an exhilarating tactile typing experience with its big tactile bump. With a snappy sound profile, it brings a sense of excitement to each keystroke. While these generalities can help guide your decision, let's dive in a bit deeper to help you choose 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 Purple differ in their housing materials. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Purple allows for a translucent appearance, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes nylon, while the Polaris Purple features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Like in the top housing, nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switch. Its softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the Polaris Purple creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Similar to the top housing, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple allows for a translucent appearance that complements RGB lighting setups.
It is important to note that when the top and bottom housings of a switch differ, the characteristics of each housing material are split between the top and bottom. When you press down on the switch, you will feel the qualities of the bottom housing, which impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when you release a key. While the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Polaris Purple differ in their housing materials, they both offer distinctive sound profiles based on the properties of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, we can see some differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Milky Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Polaris Purple's actuation force information is unavailable. However, both switches have a similar medium bottom out force, with the Milky Yellow Pro having a bottom out force of 62 grams and the Polaris Purple having a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams.
Considering weight in keyboard switches is crucial as it affects typing experience and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter force may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals desiring a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Polaris Purple, with its heavier force, providing a stronger push feel.
The actuation force of a switch indicates the force required to initiate a keystroke, which allows for a responsive typing experience. While the actuation force for the Polaris Purple is unknown, the Milky Yellow Pro's 50 grams acts as a reference point. On the other hand, the bottom out force indicates the force required to fully press down and bottom out the switch. In this aspect, the Polaris Purple is heavier, with a bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 62 grams, providing a more pronounced feel when fully pressing down the keys.
Overall, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Polaris Purple offer different options in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Milky Yellow Pro leans towards a lighter typing experience, ensuring prolonged comfort, while the Polaris Purple provides a heavier and more substantial feeling. Therefore, individuals can choose the switch that aligns better with their preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The travel distance of 4 mm ensures a satisfying tactile response and allows for efficient and comfortable typing or gaming experiences.
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 Purple 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 Purple 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its "thocky" sound. This means that when the key is pressed and released, it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound. It also has a low-pitched sound profile, giving it a bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound and actuation force requirement suitable for most purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is described as "buttery" and "textured." This means that it provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. It also has noticeable friction when pressed, which can provide some tactile feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is described as "mild" and "polished." This means that it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It also has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is a budget switch known for its smoothness, low-pitched sound, and satisfyingly thick resistance. It is an all-purpose switch suitable for both gaming and typing. The SP-Star Polaris Purple, on the other hand, provides an exhilarating tactile typing experience with its big tactile bump. It has a neutral sound profile and a mild and polished feel. Both switches offer unique qualities and are suitable for different preferences. Keep in mind that the choice of board and keycaps used can also affect the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a budget enthusiast looking for a versatile and all-purpose switch, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be a great choice. With its smoothness, low-pitched "thocky" sound, and satisfying resistance, it excels in both gaming and typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be your ideal option. It offers a big tactile bump and a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. Overall, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a buttery and textured feel, while the Polaris Purple offers a mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches depends on whether you prioritize smoothness, versatility, and a low-pitched sound (Milky Yellow Pro) or a tactile bump, snappy sound, and polished feel (Polaris Purple).
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