Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro is praised for its smoothness and satisfying resistance, making it versatile for gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are known for their bright and clacky characteristics, providing a vibrant feedback and effortless actuation for a lively typing experience. While the Milky Yellow Pro may appeal to those looking for a budget-friendly all-purpose switch, the Salt Ice may attract users seeking a more energetic and responsive 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, we can see that the Milky Yellow Pro features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Salt Ice has a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The nylon housing of the Milky Yellow Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Salt Ice produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Salt Ice is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, while the nylon housing of the Milky Yellow Pro offers a classic feel.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro and the Jerrzi Salt Ice offer unique sound profiles based on their respective nylon and polycarbonate housings. The split qualities of the housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches affect the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Milky Yellow Pro impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice contributes to a sharper and crisper sound when pressing down on the keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro and the Jerrzi Salt Ice housing materials comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile. While the nylon housing of the Milky Yellow Pro offers a classic typing experience with a deep and fuller sound, the polycarbonate housing of the Salt Ice provides a sharper and crisper sound that is especially suited for showcasing RGB lighting. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, making them appealing options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific sound profile for their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, the Milky Yellow Pro is a bit heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Salt Ice's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Milky Yellow Pro is also higher at 62 grams, while the Salt Ice's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance during both actuation and bottoming out. Some users may find this preferable for a more tactile feel when typing. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Salt Ice may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow Pro has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Salt Ice. The Milky Yellow Pro's 4.0mm travel distance offers a more traditional and deeper key press, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Salt Ice's 3.4mm travel distance provides a shallower press, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer their own benefits based on the user's preference for travel distance, with the shorter Salt Ice catering to those prioritizing quick reactions, while the longer Milky Yellow Pro offering a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance in mechanical keyboard switches.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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) offers a bassy and low-pitched profile with a thocky sound, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches are described as exceptionally bright and clacky, offering a more energetic and responsive typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users may find the low, thocky sound of the Milky Yellow Pro to be more satisfying, while others may prefer the vibrant feedback of the Salt Ice switches.
Moving on to feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its buttery and textured keystrokes, providing a smooth and fluid typing sensation with a hint of friction. On the other hand, the feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches remains unknown, leaving space for exploration and discovery for users interested in a light touch with vibrant feedback. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches each bring their own set of subjective qualities to the table. The Milky Yellow Pro excels in providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low, thocky sound, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches offer a bright and clacky typing experience with a light touch and vibrant feedback. Depending on individual preferences in sound and feel, users can expect distinct typing experiences with either switch. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch or the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, you should opt for the Milky Yellow Pro if you value a versatile switch that excels in both gaming and typing, with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams. The Milky Yellow Pro offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a low, "thocky" sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, complemented by a light touch, the Salt Ice may be the better choice for you. The Salt Ice stands out for its vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, providing an energetic and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will ultimately come down to your personal preferences and the specific qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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