Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it's clear they both offer unique benefits for different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro is praised for its smoothness and thick resistance, making it ideal for gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura stands out for its snappy response and balanced tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience with a mild and neutral sound signature. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, we can see that they both feature nylon in their bottom housing. This means that both switches will provide a deep and full sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. However, the top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is made of nylon, while the Purple Sakura's top housing is constructed from polycarbonate. This difference results in the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offering a duller and rounder sound, while the Purple Sakura delivers a sharper and crisper sound, perfect for those who prefer a more clear and resonant sound profile.
On the aesthetic side, the Purple Sakura's use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a translucent look, making it ideal for those who want to showcase RGB lighting. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with nylon top housing may not offer the same level of visual appeal for those interested in highlighting lighting effects. Despite this difference, both switches will provide a unique typing experience due to the distinct sound profiles created by their respective housing materials.
In summary, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura share similarities in their use of nylon in the bottom housing to produce a deep and full sound, they diverge in their choice of material for the top housing. This results in the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offering a duller and rounder sound due to its nylon top housing, while the Purple Sakura delivers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and aesthetics, with the housing materials playing a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch both have a similar actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally sensitive in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro requires 62 grams, while the Purple Sakura needs 60 grams, making the Purple Sakura slightly lighter to press down completely. The Milky Yellow Pro provides a slightly heavier feel upon bottoming out, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall under the medium weight category, offering a balance between lightness for extended typing sessions and resistance for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, whether one is lighter or heavier than the other would depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro will provide a deeper key press experience compared to the Purple Sakura. Gamers looking for a more responsive feel may lean towards the Purple Sakura with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro. However, both switches offer efficient travel distances that cater to different preferences, ensuring a comfortable typing or gaming experience regardless of the choice made.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 deep and rich bass tones, producing a low-pitched and thocky sound that is both satisfying and pleasant to the ears. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a more neutral sound profile, providing a moderate and versatile sound that is suitable for a wide range of users. When considering the sound of a switch, it's important to take into account factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used, as they can also influence the overall sound experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Milky Yellow Pro and the Purple Sakura are described as having a buttery typing experience, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that is enjoyable for extended typing sessions. While the Milky Yellow Pro is noted for its textured resistance, offering a satisfyingly thick feel, the Purple Sakura is praised for its mild tactility and snappy response, creating a comfortable and responsive typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant typing feel that can cater to a variety of preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches each bring their own unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow Pro excels in providing a deep, thocky sound and a textured typing experience, making it a versatile option for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura offers a neutral sound profile and a buttery, mild typing feel with a snappy response for a comfortable and responsive typing experience. Depending on your preferences and typing style, both switches can offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience that is sure to meet your needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is important to consider your preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a reliable, versatile switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Milky Yellow Pro is a great choice with its smooth and satisfying feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, the Purple Sakura might be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for. Choose wisely based on your needs and enjoy the satisfying feel of either switch.
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