Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Huano Sakura both present compelling options for enthusiasts and casual users alike. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is celebrated for its smooth, buttery feel and low "thocky" sound, which provide a satisfying typing experience and make it a versatile all-rounder perfect for gaming and typing alike. The switch's tactile characteristics, paired with a responsive resistance, have made it a popular choice among budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking quality performance without breaking the bank. In contrast, the Huano Sakura offers a feather-light touch coupled with medium acoustics, ideally suited for those who spend long hours typing and prefer a less tactile but highly responsive experience. While both switches cater to linear switch lovers, they embody unique qualities that can significantly impact one's 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
35g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Huano Sakura switches present two distinct approaches to housing materials that influence their overall auditory and tactile characteristics during use. The Milky Yellow Pro features a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. As nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs sound effectively, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience, which many typists find pleasing. In contrast, the Sakura employs polyketone (POK) for its top housing. While not as sound-absorbing as nylon, POK’s coefficient of friction of 0.04 contributes to a smooth typing experience, ultimately generating a clacky and vibrant sound profile. Consequently, users might find that while both switches provide satisfying auditory feedback, the tones may differ significantly due to the comparative hardness of the materials used in their top housings.
Examining the bottom housings of both switches reveals a similarity; both the Milky Yellow Pro and the Sakura utilize nylon. This commonality means that the deeper and fuller sound profile associated with nylon is prevalent in both switches, particularly in their bottom-out moments. The nylon bottom housing is instrumental in determining the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel, offering a consistent tactile response regardless of the differences in their top materials. As a result, users can expect a familiar auditory experience during typing, with both switches offering that characteristic dampened sound upon bottoming out.
Despite the differences in the top materials, potential users of either switch can anticipate a harmonious blend of experiences when typing. The nylon bottom housings ensure both switches share an essential quality: a pleasant, sound-absorbing responsiveness that cultivates an inviting typing environment. By analyzing the unique characteristics contributed by each housing type, one can appreciate how the Milky Yellow Pro and Huano Sakura leverage their materials to cater to diverse preferences—whether seeking smoothness and clack or a deeper resonance. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials allows for versatile outcomes while framing the acoustic and tactile experiences within a shared auditory spectrum due to their common nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch to the Huano Sakura linear switch, a clear distinction arises in both the actuation force and bottom out force. The Milky Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, classifying it as a medium weight switch. In contrast, the Sakura switch features a notably lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Sakura switch is better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods of typing or gaming, while the Milky Yellow Pro will appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Thus, for users who prioritize a lighter switch experience, the Huano Sakura is a more appropriate choice, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro provides a heavier and more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Milky Yellow Pro features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro provides a more pronounced depth, potentially appealing to users who enjoy a fuller keystroke experience. Conversely, the Sakura, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference: if a user favors a more significant keypress feel, they may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro; however, if they prioritize rapid inputs, the Sakura would be the preferable option.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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 sound profile of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is characterized by its deep, thocky acoustics that produce a rich and satisfying auditory experience. This switch generates a low-pitched, bassy sound that resembles a soft thud or a gentle knock when pressed, making it appealing for users who appreciate a more pronounced audio feedback during typing and gaming. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch does not have a described sound profile available, making it challenging to compare directly. However, if the Sakura produces medium acoustics, as suggested, it may offer a more muted experience that appeals to those who prefer a subtler sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) delivers a buttery smooth keystroke experience, facilitating a seamless typing sensation that many users find pleasurable. Its textured nature allows for a certain engagement with the switch, which some might appreciate. The Huano Sakura switch lacks detailed feel characteristics in the information provided, leaving a gap in understanding its tactile feedback. If the Sakura is truly designed for a feather-light touch, one might expect a less resistant and potentially smoother press, yet without explicit descriptions, the specifics remain unclear.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) stands out for its thocky sound and buttery feel, making it a versatile choice for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch offers a lighter touch and medium acoustics, though details on its exact sound and feel are less defined. Ultimately, while the Milky Yellow Pro provides an engaging and rich experience, the Sakura may appeal to those seeking a softer, less resistant option. If a newcomer is deciding between the two, their choice might boil down to personal preference regarding sound and typing resistance, with the Milky Yellow Pro offering a more definitive and recognizable character.
Conclusion
To conclude, when selecting between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Huano Sakura linear switches, your decision largely hinges on your typing style and preferences. If you appreciate a medium resistance and enjoy a thocky, bassy sound with a buttery smooth feel, the Milky Yellow Pro is an excellent choice for both gaming and typing. Its 62-gram bottom-out force provides a satisfying tactile experience that can enhance your interaction with the keyboard, making it a fantastic all-rounder for those who want the best of both worlds. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Sakura switches at 45 grams will be more comfortable for you. Their softer resistance is ideal for those who type frequently and want to reduce finger fatigue, though they may not deliver the same level of auditory satisfaction as the Milky Yellows. Ultimately, it boils down to your specific needs: go for the Milky Yellow Pro if you're after a versatile switch with a richer sound profile, or choose the Sakura for a more effortless and gentle typing experience.
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