Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that are worth considering are the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Sea Glass. The Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch that is known for its smoothness and satisfyingly thick resistance. It excels in both gaming and typing, making it a versatile option for all-purpose use. On the other hand, the Sea Glass is also a linear switch but with a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness in its typing experience. Despite its 62g bottom-out force, it possesses a weightlessness that defies expectations. Additionally, the Sea Glass switches have a uniquely hollow sound signature. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but with different characteristics. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Sea Glass switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall performance. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Sea Glass switch utilizes a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing. This blend produces a pleasant sound profile that leans towards the brighter side, providing a slightly sharper tone compared to the Milky Yellow Pro.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches incorporate nylon. This classic switch housing material offers similar benefits to both switches, including a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively creates a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. However, the Sea Glass switch showcases a bottom housing made from a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE. While this blend adds to the switch's uniqueness, its impact on the sound profile may be limited to the bottom-out sound and feel, as the bottom housing plays a larger role in this aspect.
When it comes to the overall sound experience, the top housing material of a switch is crucial when pressing down and releasing a key. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro and the unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the Sea Glass switch impact the sound differently at these moments. While the Milky Yellow Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound when releasing a key, the Sea Glass switch leans towards a slightly sharper tone. Both switches offer a pleasant sound profile, albeit with nuanced differences.
In summary, the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Sea Glass switches contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The nylon top and bottom housings of the Milky Yellow Pro create a deeper and fuller sound, while the Sea Glass switch offers a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE that produces a slightly brighter tone. Despite their differences, both switches provide a pleasant typing experience and demonstrate the influence of housing materials on sound output.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. The Milky Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Sea Glass has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a similar level of resistance when fully pressed. Therefore, if one is looking for a lighter actuation force, the Sea Glass would be the better choice. However, if someone prefers a slightly heavier actuation force, the Milky Yellow Pro would be more suitable. It is worth mentioning that both switches have the same bottom out force, so regardless of which one is chosen, the typing experience in terms of full depression will be similar. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier actuation force is desired.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered to be the more traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches provide a satisfying tactile experience when pressing down on a key, the shorter travel distance of the Sea Glass switch may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. This shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes, which can be advantageous in competitive gaming situations. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt, resulting in a less satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be preferred by those who prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired 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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its low-pitched and thocky sound. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. When pressed and released, they produce a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" sound. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Durock Sea Glass switches are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches are described as buttery and textured. They provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. However, some users may find a subtle texture or friction in these switches. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switches from Durock are described as frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press. They offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. The actuation force required to press these switches is light, reducing finger fatigue and providing comfort during extended typing sessions.
Considering the available information, it is clear that both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Durock Sea Glass switches have their own unique qualities. The Milky Yellow Pro is known for its low-pitched and thocky sound, as well as a smooth and textured typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switches possess unknown sound characteristics and provide a frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press typing experience. While there are differences in sound and feel, they both offer smoothness in their operation. It is important to consider personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing style and usage when deciding between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a classic budget switch that delivers smoothness and a satisfying typing experience, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the ideal choice. With its low, "thocky" sound and pleasantly thick resistance, this switch excels in both gaming and typing, making it versatile for any purpose. On the other hand, if you are drawn to captivating pastel colors and a distinct typing experience, the Durock Sea Glass switch series is worth considering. These switches offer a unique dryness, wispiness, and airiness, while maintaining a smooth feel. Despite their 62g bottom-out force, they possess a weightlessness that defies expectations and produce a uniquely hollow sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a classic budget switch with a smooth and buttery feel (Milky Yellow Pro) or a visually appealing switch with a distinctive typing experience (Sea Glass). Consider your preferences in sound and feel, and choose accordingly.
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