Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Jerrzi Seashell offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro is praised for its smoothness, low-pitched "thocky" sound, and satisfyingly thick resistance, making it an excellent choice for both gaming and typing tasks, especially for budget-conscious enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell stands out with its stunning purple hue, light and clacky feel, and comfortable typing experience that remains enjoyable over long sessions. While the Milky Yellow Pro is more bassy and buttery, the Seashell is clacky and feathery, offering distinct tactile feedback. 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
1.20 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
Nylon
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 Seashell, we see a clear distinction in the materials used for their top housing. The Milky Yellow Pro features a softer nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Seashell utilizes a stiffer polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material not only affects the sound produced but also the aesthetics, with the clear polycarbonate housing of the Seashell being perfect for RGB lighting enthusiasts.
On the other hand, when we examine the bottom housing material of both switches, we find that they both use nylon. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The similarity in bottom housing for the Milky Yellow Pro and the Seashell means that both switches will likely have a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, the distinct difference in their top housing material will ultimately impact the overall sound profile of the switches.
In considering how the top and bottom housings interact to influence the typing experience, we can see that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. With the Milky Yellow Pro having nylon top and bottom housings, and the Seashell having a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing, users can expect a mix of characteristics from both materials during typing. Despite the differences in their housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, making them both worthy options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a customized typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch have some notable differences. The Milky Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Seashell has an actuation force of 45 grams with an unknown bottom out force. The Milky Yellow Pro is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Seashell. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Seashell may be the better option due to its lighter actuation force. However, if a more substantial typing feel is desired, the Milky Yellow Pro may be more suitable with its heavier force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference for extended use.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two options compared to the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Seashell switch, while those who prefer a greater sense of depth and feedback when typing may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro switch. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the Seashell providing a more compact and quicker key press, and the Milky Yellow Pro offering a more traditional and deliberate typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience each user values most.
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 Seashell has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Seashell 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) linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and satisfying thocky sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving a sharp and percussive typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Milky Yellow Pro will offer a deeper and richer sound, while the Seashell will provide a brighter and crispier sound. Both switches excel in their sound profiles, catering to different auditory preferences and ensuring an enjoyable typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is praised for its buttery and textured touch, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. On the contrary, the Jerrzi Seashell switch provides a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal exertion from the fingers and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Seashell switch is described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish for comfortable typing. While the Milky Yellow Pro delivers a uniform and seamless typing sensation, the Seashell provides a light and effortless typing experience that is gentle on the fingers.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow Pro is characterized by its bassy and buttery attributes, providing a deep and smooth typing experience, while the Seashell features a clacky and feathery touch, ensuring a light and comfortable typing sensation. Both switches excel in their respective sound and feel profiles, catering to different preferences and ensuring a pleasant and satisfying typing experience for users. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer excellent options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a medium bottom out force, smooth and buttery keystrokes, and a low, "thocky" sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an unknown bottom out force, a stunning purple aesthetic, and a light, clacky sound with easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Jerrzi Seashell switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what typing experience you prioritize and what features align best with your personal preferences.