Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro is renowned for its smooth and buttery feel, with a low, "thocky" sound that appeals to both gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the Sky POM stands out for its premium POM material construction, providing a clacky sound and exceptional smoothness with a gentle actuation force. While the Milky Yellow Pro excels in providing a budget-friendly option with versatile usage, the Sky POM offers a high-quality experience at an accessible price point. 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
40g
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
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky POM switches both utilize nylon for their top housing. This means that they will both elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, while the Nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro creates a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, the POM top housing of the Sky POM creates a more muted and unique sound on the deeper side. So even though they both use nylon, the sound experience they provide may differ in terms of tone and intensity.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Milky Yellow Pro features nylon while the Dareu Sky POM uses a POM bottom housing. Both nylon and POM are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. This means that when typing on either of these switches, you can expect a similar level of sound quality and experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. The only difference may lie in the specific sound profile each material brings to the table.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky POM largely comes down to personal preference in terms of the sound profile you prefer. Both switches utilize materials that create a deep and full sound experience, with nylon in the Milky Yellow Pro and POM in the Sky POM. While they may differ slightly in the specific tones and intensity of the sound they produce, the end result is a satisfying typing experience with a range of sound options to suit different preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Milky Yellow Pro or the Sky POM, you can expect a high-quality switch with unique sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, we can see some clear differences. The Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams, making it a bit more resistant to accidental keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro requires 62 grams of force, while the information for the Sky POM is unknown. In terms of weight, the Sky POM is lighter in terms of actuation force, which may appeal to those looking for a smoother typing experience and longer gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches have their own strengths, so the choice ultimately depends on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sky POM. The 0.2 mm difference may be minimal, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Sky POM with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 low-pitched, bassy, and thocky sound profile, giving users a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch provides a low-pitched sound, which is also characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound, the Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go, while the Sky POM switch will cater to those who enjoy a mellower tone.
In terms of feel, both the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky POM switches offer a buttery typing experience. The Milky Yellow Pro is known for its smooth and fluid keystroke feel, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Similarly, the Sky POM switch offers a creamy and silky typing experience, allowing users to effortlessly glide their fingers across the keys with ease. Whether you prefer a textured or a creamier feel, both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky POM switches have their distinct sound and feel characteristics. The Milky Yellow Pro excels in its low-pitched, bassy sound and buttery feel, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch stands out for its POM material construction, clacky sound, and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that you'll get a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a medium bottom out force, smooth keystrokes, and a low, thocky sound profile suitable for both gaming and typing, the Milky Yellow Pro is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a premium-quality switch made entirely of POM material with a clacky sound profile, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, the Sky POM switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired typing experience, sound preference, and budget constraints.
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