Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky V4, both of which are linear switches. The Milky Yellow Pro is favored for its smoothness, buttery feel, and satisfyingly thick resistance, making it suitable for both gaming and typing purposes. On the other hand, the Sky V4 stands out due to its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and a smooth linear action that provides a rich typing experience. While the Milky Yellow Pro is known for its budget-friendly nature and versatile performance, the Sky V4 offers a unique typing experience with its specialized materials. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky V4, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Sky V4's POK material offers a smoother typing experience with its higher coefficient of friction and superior durability compared to nylon. Both materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches, but the POK material in the Sky V4 provides a unique smooth and clacky typing experience that sets it apart from the Milky Yellow Pro.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Sky V4 utilize nylon as well. This classic switch housing material adds to the deeper and fuller sound profile of the switches, creating a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. While both switches share this commonality in their bottom housing material, it is important to note that the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, influencing the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Dareu Sky V4 share similarities in their use of nylon for both top and bottom housing, the Sky V4's utilization of POK material for the top housing sets it apart in terms of smoothness, clackiness, and durability. The differences in housing materials between these two switches contribute to unique typing experiences, with the Sky V4 offering a smoother and more robust typing feel compared to the Milky Yellow Pro. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile with nylon or a smoother and clackier feel with POK material, both switches offer distinct qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to enjoy.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro requires 62 grams compared to the Sky V4's 55 grams, making the Sky V4 the lighter of the two switches overall. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro may provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Sky V4 offers a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range, so users can expect similar overall results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, which has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky V4, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the longer travel distance of the Milky Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects 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 Dareu Sky V4 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 V4 for $4.76.
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) linear switch is known for its deep, "thocky" sound with a bass-heavy profile, perfect for those looking for a satisfying typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a similar low-pitched and thocky sound but distinguishes itself with a deeper sound signature due to the innovative POK material used in its top housing. Both switches provide a rich and pleasing sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of typing preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is described as offering a smooth and buttery keystroke experience, ensuring a seamless and effortless typing sensation. In comparison, the Dareu Sky V4 is known for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like and elastic sensation with lively key presses. While the Milky Yellow Pro focuses on providing a textured feel, the Sky V4 emphasizes a more responsive and rebounding typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a smoother and buttery feel or a bouncier and responsive feel.
Taking all available information into consideration, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. While the Milky Yellow Pro excels in delivering a deep and bass-heavy sound along with a buttery smooth keystroke experience, the Sky V4 stands out for its innovative material choice resulting in a unique sound signature and bouncy feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing characteristics. Overall, users can expect a satisfying and high-quality typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a classic budget switch with a satisfyingly thick resistance and low, "thocky" sound, then the Milky Yellow Pro might be the ideal choice for you, especially if you are an enthusiast looking for an all-purpose switch. On the other hand, if you are looking for an innovative switch with a deep sound signature and smooth linear action thanks to its POK material top housing, the Sky V4 might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired typing experience, whether you prefer a buttery and textured feel or a bouncy sensation. Assessing factors such as sound, feel, and bottom-out force will help you make an informed choice between these two exceptional linear switches.
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