Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Everglide Rice Pudding
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Rice Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy contenders are the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Rice Pudding switch. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro stands out as an ideal option for budget-conscious users, delivering a classic linear experience characterized by its smooth operation and satisfying "thocky" sound profile. This switch strikes a balance between performance and affordability, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing tasks alike. On the other hand, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch offers a unique hall effect design that enhances smoothness and sound depth, providing a precise and enjoyable typing experience. Its compatibility with Wooting's innovative keyboards opens up additional possibilities for customization and performance, appealing to enthusiasts who seek versatility. While both switches offer distinct advantages that cater to different user preferences, they each provide a fulfilling experience in their own way. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Custom stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Rice Pudding, notable differences emerge that influence key sound profiles and user experiences. The Milky Yellow Pro features a top housing made of nylon, a material known for its ability to absorb sound. This results in a deeper and fuller auditory experience, as the softer nylon dampens vibrations more effectively than harder plastics. In contrast, the Rice Pudding utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which leads to a brighter and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for more resonance and clarity during key presses, making the auditory feedback sharper and more defined. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate housing’s translucency further enhances RGB lighting effects, adding visual vibrance to the overall keyboard setup.
Both switches, however, utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which underscores a shared characteristic in both models. With nylon's inherent capacity to absorb sound, users will experience a consistent deeper and softer feel during key presses, regardless of the top housing material. This consistency is crucial as it emphasizes the importance of the bottom housing in determining the feel and bottom-out sound of the switch. The deep and fuller sound profile associated with nylon contributes to a tactile yet muted response that many users appreciate. Thus, despite the differences in top housing materials, the nylon bottoms of both switches serve to unify some aspects of their acoustic performance.
Ultimately, the interaction between the distinct top and bottom housing materials in each switch creates a unique auditory experience. The Milky Yellow Pro's nylon top complements its nylon bottom to produce a more cohesive and subdued sound. On the other hand, the Rice Pudding's unique pairing of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom blends sharper auditory feedback with softer response characteristics. This means that while the top materials may contrast in sound projection, the shared nylon bottom results in a balanced experience across both models. Users looking for specific sound profiles can leverage these differences while acknowledging that the nylon bottom provides a common foundation for tactile engagement.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Milky Yellow Pro requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, giving it a medium weight profile. In contrast, the Rice Pudding is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This lighter resistance makes the Rice Pudding well-suited for users who prefer less fatigue during extended typing sessions or gameplay. Conversely, the heavier feel of the Milky Yellow Pro may appeal to those seeking a more substantial push for deeper tactile feedback. Ultimately, for those who appreciate a lighter switch, the Rice Pudding would be the preferable choice, while the Milky Yellow Pro caters to those who enjoy a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, notable differences emerge. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional travel standard, offering a deeper press that some users may find more satisfying and fulfilling. In contrast, the Everglide Rice Pudding has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a better choice for those who prefer quicker response times, often favored by gamers. This shorter distance can create a more rapid actuation, but it may feel too abrupt for users accustomed to the deeper feel of longer travel switches. Ultimately, the Milky Yellow Pro is the longer option, while the Rice Pudding, with its reduced travel distance, presents a snappier alternative for those seeking improved responsiveness.
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 Everglide Rice Pudding has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rice Pudding for $6.79.
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) switches are characterized by their low-pitched, thocky profile, producing a deep and satisfying sound that many enthusiasts appreciate. This “thock” creates a rich auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience, contributing to a sense of satisfaction with each keystroke. The low frequency of these switches brings a "bassy" quality to their sound, making them ideal for both gaming and typing scenarios. On the other hand, details about the sound characteristics of the Everglide Rice Pudding switches are currently unknown, making it difficult to directly compare them. However, the Rice Pudding switches are noted to provide a balanced typing experience that suggests a sound profile that may be more muted or refined.
In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is renowned for its buttery smoothness, allowing for a seamless and enjoyable typing experience. Users often appreciate their textured, yet fluid operation that enables a consistent keystroke feel. This makes them appealing for long typing sessions and fast-paced gaming alike, as the resistance is pleasingly thick without being overly strenuous. Meanwhile, the tactile characteristics of the Everglide Rice Pudding switches remain unknown, leaving uncertainty around how directly they can match or differ from the smooth, effortless experience provided by the Milky Yellows.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a well-established auditory and tactile experience that caters nicely to both gamers and typists, the Everglide Rice Pudding's characteristics are less defined in current information. The Milky Yellow Pro excels in delivering a deep sound and a buttery feel, making them a favorite among budget switch enthusiasts. Should the Rice Pudding switches provide similar qualities, one could expect comparable satisfaction in performance and versatility; however, the absence of specific details prevents a complete comparison. For those considering either option, it's advisable to sample the switches or explore user reviews for a more personalized understanding.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a balanced, versatile switch that offers a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, the Milky Yellow Pro is an excellent option. It provides a satisfying thocky sound and a buttery feel, making it well-suited for both gaming marathons and long typing sessions, catering nicely to budget-conscious users who still want an enjoyable experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and smoother feel, the Everglide Rice Pudding with its 48-gram bottom-out force could be the switch for you. Its blend of smooth operation and deeper sound must appeal to those who cherish precision and are looking for versatility, particularly if you are considering compatibility with Wooting keyboards. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the type of sound, feel, and force that aligns best with your needs, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience is as enjoyable and effective as possible.
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