Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear are two options worth considering. The Milky Yellow Pro is known for its budget-friendly nature and impressive performance. With its smooth and buttery feel, low-pitched "thocky" sound, and satisfying resistance, it excels in both gaming and typing scenarios, making it a versatile and all-purpose switch. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its innovative design. It offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, creating a unique typing experience. Its feel is silky smooth without being overly polished. Both switches have their own set of qualities, and knowing the key characteristics allows you to make an informed decision. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
The housing materials used in the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches differ significantly. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, while the Semi-Silent Linear incorporates a polycarbonate top housing. This difference in material results in distinct sound profiles. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) produces a deeper and fuller sound, giving a duller and rounder sound experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Semi-Silent Linear creates a sharper and crisper sound, with a higher-pitched profile. Therefore, users seeking a switch with a more resonant and clear sound should opt for the Semi-Silent Linear, while those preferring a deeper and fuller sound may find the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) more suitable.
Both the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Semi-Silent Linear share a nylon bottom housing. As a result, they both offer a similar experience in terms of sound profile. The nylon material used in the bottom housing of these switches is soft, allowing for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics. This characteristic contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a rounder and duller sound when typing on these switches. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles from both the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Semi-Silent Linear due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
The composition of the switch housing plays a role in different aspects of the typing experience. If the top and bottom housings differ, the characteristics brought by each material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, such as sound and feel, will be most noticeable. Meanwhile, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced more by the material of the top housing. Therefore, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Semi-Silent Linear may share similarities in their bottom housing material, the differences in their top housings will create varying sensations and sound profiles when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. In terms of actuation force, the Milky Yellow Pro requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the exact value for the Semi-Silent Linear is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, placing them in the medium range.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro may be more suitable as it requires a lighter actuation force. This can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, where a lighter switch can help reduce fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and solid typing feel may lean towards the Semi-Silent Linear, as it potentially has a heavier actuation force.
Although the actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear is unavailable, individuals seeking a similar result to the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro can expect comparable performance in terms of bottom out force, as both switches require 62 grams of force when fully pressed down. This ensures a consistent level of resistance for a satisfying keystroke experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel – whether it be a lighter touch or a more pronounced keystroke response.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) falls into the more traditional range, providing a satisfying depth to the keystrokes. On the other hand, the 3.7mm travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear offers a slightly shallower experience. These shorter travel distances have become popular among gamers seeking faster response times. Opting for the shorter travel distance may result in a more responsive feel. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt. Therefore, if a deeper keystroke feel is preferred, the switch with the longer travel distance would be a better choice. Overall, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a longer travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear, each switch offers its own benefits and it ultimately depends on individual preferences.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 best known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound. The switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. When pressed and released, they produce a satisfying deep "thud" or a soft "knock" sound. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has a more subdued sound. While not completely silent, it offers a dampened and subtle sound signature. This switch produces a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. Overall, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) delivers a deeper and more pronounced sound, while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a more subdued and quiet typing experience.
In terms of feel, both the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Semi-Silent Linear switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is described as buttery and textured. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Some users may appreciate the subtle texture that adds a bit of friction to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear is mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. These switches provide a gentle typing experience with a safe, middle-ground feel. They are super responsive and offer a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke, but with slightly different characteristics.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches each have their own unique qualities. While the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) excels in delivering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound with its bassy and thocky characteristics, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a more subdued and quiet sound profile. In terms of feel, both switches provide a smooth and fluid typing sensation, with the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offering a textured experience and the Semi-Silent Linear providing a snappy and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preferences and requirements. However, if you are looking for a similar typing experience, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. With its smoothness and satisfyingly thick resistance, it offers a low, "thocky" sound that many enthusiasts love. It's a perfect all-purpose switch that provides a deep and rich sound profile with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The typing experience is described as buttery, providing a seamless and effortless feel.
On the other hand, if you're seeking a more innovative and semi-silent switch, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is your best bet. With its whisper-quiet topping-out sound and clacky bottom-out sound, it offers a unique typing experience. The switch provides a more subdued sound signature, making it suitable for various environments. The feel of the Semi-Silent Linear switch ranges from mild to snappy, offering a gentle typing experience with super responsiveness.
In closing, choosing between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches ultimately depends on your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a classic, all-purpose feel and a deep, satisfying sound, the Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you're looking for innovation, a semi-silent typing experience, and a more subdued sound profile, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is the better choice. No matter which switch you choose, both provide a smooth keystroke experience that will enhance your typing and gaming endeavors.
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