Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Star both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch known for its smoothness, satisfying resistance, and versatile performance in gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Purple Star boasts an all-POM construction, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out ideal for light typists. While the Milky Yellow Pro is praised for its budget-friendly nature and all-purpose functionality, the Purple Star stands out for its ease and comfort in typing. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Star both use different housing materials for their switches, with the Milky Yellow Pro featuring a nylon top and bottom housing while the Purple Star utilizes POM for both top and bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, POM housings create a unique and pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted compared to other materials.
While both the Milky Yellow Pro and the Purple Star switches have different top and bottom housing materials, they share similarities in terms of creating a deep and full sound profile for the typing experience. The impact of the housing material can be felt differently depending on whether it is used for the top or bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when the key is released. This showcases how the material composition of a switch can affect various aspects of the typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Star may come down to personal preference in terms of the sound profile and feel that each housing material provides. While nylon offers a softer and more absorbing sound experience, POM provides a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering different sound profiles based on the housing materials used, allowing users to choose based on their preferred typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow Pro requires a heavier force for both actuation and bottom out compared to the Purple Star. The Milky Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls on the medium side of the spectrum. In contrast, the Purple Star has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Purple Star a lighter option overall. Those who prefer a softer touch and a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Purple Star due to its lower actuation and bottom out force, while the Milky Yellow Pro would be more suited for individuals who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Purple Star has a shorter travel distance compared to the Milky Yellow Pro. The shorter travel distance of the Purple Star may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro with its longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of the feel and responsiveness that each travel distance provides.
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 KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is best described as having a deep and rich bass tone, giving off a satisfying "thocky" sound with each key press. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star provides a low-pitched sound profile that is more mellow and neutral in comparison. Both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience, with the Milky Yellow Pro leaning towards a deeper and more gratifying sound quality.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a buttery and smooth keystroke experience, making typing feel effortless and uniform. However, the KTT Purple Star provides a milder typing experience that is gentle and easy to press, with minimal resistance required to activate the switch. While the Milky Yellow Pro gives a textured feel with its smoothness, the Purple Star offers a mild and approachable typing sensation that is gentle on the fingers.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Star linear switches both have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro excels in providing a deep, satisfying sound profile and a buttery smooth typing experience, making it a versatile option for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Purple Star offers a light and easy-to-press feel with a neutral sound signature, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are excellent options depending on your personal preferences, ensuring that you'll get a satisfying typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Star linear switches, you should consider your preference for bottom-out force, sound, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, a deep and satisfying "thocky" sound, and a buttery and textured typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, a neutral and low-pitched sound, and a mild and easy-to-press typing feel, the Purple Star is the perfect option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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