Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Kailh Sage are two mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its smoothness and satisfyingly thick resistance. It is known for producing a low, "thocky" sound, which enhances both gaming and typing experiences. On the other hand, the Sage switch delivers a distinct clicky typing experience with a refreshing sharpness. Its weight is considered quite heavy, providing a satisfying crunch with every keystroke. Both switches have their unique appeal and are suitable for different preferences and purposes. The Milky Yellow Pro is an excellent all-purpose switch that excels in both gaming and typing, making it a go-to choice for budget enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Sage switch offers an invigorating and lively typing experience. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Kailh Sage differ in terms of their housing materials. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, while the Sage uses a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Sage produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate housing of the Sage is particularly useful for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Sage utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches will exhibit similar qualities due to their nylon bottom housing.
When it comes to the overall sound profile of a switch, the qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom. Pressing down on the switch will mainly reflect the qualities of the bottom housing, while the sound when you let go of a key is more influenced by the top housing. Therefore, the different top housing materials of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Sage will have a noticeable impact on the sound produced when releasing a key, with the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) creating a duller and rounder sound, and the Sage producing a crisper and clearer sound. However, both switches will still provide a deep and full sound when typing due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have medium actuation forces. The Milky Yellow Pro requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the exact actuation force of the Sage is unknown. However, the Milky Yellow Pro has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is lighter than the Sage's 70 grams, making the Sage the heavier option.
Considering the weight of the switches, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro. This switch is ideal for individuals who use their keyboard extensively for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who value a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push may opt for the Sage, as its heavier bottom out force provides a more robust tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch have medium actuation forces, the Milky Yellow Pro is lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Sage. Each switch caters to different preferences, with the Milky Yellow Pro being favored by those who desire a lighter typing experience, and the Sage appealing to those seeking a heavier and more substantial keystroke feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the more typical length and 3.6 mm being on the shallower side. The choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Sage a potential favorite in that regard. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key-press experience may gravitate towards the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) due to its longer travel distance. Overall, the decision between these switches boils down to whether one values responsiveness or a greater sense of depth in their typing or gaming experience.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its low, "thocky" sound profile. It offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The sound is characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch provides a distinct clicky sound. It is described as "crunchy," similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. The sound produced by the Sage switch is refreshing and has a sharp clickiness. However, it's 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) offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It is often described as "buttery," providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Some users may prefer a slight textured feel, which can be found in these switches. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is described as invigorating. It offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The Sage switch has a sharp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each keypress.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Kailh Sage switches provide different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its low-pitched, thocky sound and buttery, smooth feel. It offers a satisfying typing experience and is suitable for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the Sage switch offers a distinct clicky sound and an invigorating, sharp feel. It provides strong tactile feedback and creates an immersive typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences and the type of typing experience desired, both switches have their own unique characteristics that can be enjoyed by newcomers.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Milky Yellow Pro is a versatile switch that excels in both gaming and typing scenarios, with its smoothness and satisfying resistance. It offers a low-pitched, thocky sound that can provide a deep and rich typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage switch provides a distinct clicky typing experience, with a heavier bottom out force and a sharp clickiness. It offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feel that can create an immersive typing sensation. If you prefer a smoother and fluid keystroke experience with a deeper sound profile, the Milky Yellow Pro might be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a more pronounced feedback and a crisp tactile bump, the Sage switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, it's important to try out different switch types and determine which one suits your preferences and needs the best.
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