Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Smoothie 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 Gateron Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, it all boils down to personal preference and specific needs. The Milky Yellow Pro is a classic budget switch known for its smooth and buttery feel, ideal for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the Smoothie is an all-POM switch that offers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, all at an affordable price point. While both switches share qualities such as being buttery and low-pitched, they differ in their texture and sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Smoothie, one significant difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Milky Yellow Pro features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Smoothie boasts a POM top housing, which produces a unique, muted sound profile that leans towards the deeper end. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound output of a switch.
Similarly, the bottom housing of the Milky Yellow Pro and the Smoothie also presents differences in material. The Milky Yellow Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. In comparison, the Smoothie incorporates a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a sound profile on the deeper side that is relatively more muted. This disparity showcases how the housing materials of a switch can influence not only the sound produced but also the overall typing experience.
In summary, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Smoothie may have different housing materials for both the top and bottom, their respective qualities ultimately impact the overall sound profile and typing feel of the switches. The nylon housing of the Milky Yellow Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the POM housing of the Smoothie offers a more unique and muted sound experience. However, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with the qualities of their housing materials evenly distributed between the top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow Pro has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Smoothie. The Milky Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Smoothie has an actuation force of 40 grams and an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, perfect for those who prefer a bit of resistance. On the other hand, the Smoothie offers a lighter actuation force, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue may become an issue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we find that the Milky Yellow Pro has a travel distance of 4 mm while the Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly longer travel distance, making it more ideal for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. On the other hand, the Smoothie offers a shorter travel distance, which can be beneficial for gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing between the two.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Smoothie offer a thocky low-pitched sound profile. The Milky Yellow Pro is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and rich noise during key presses. On the other hand, the Smoothie also delivers a thocky low-pitched sound but adds a subdued quality that dampens the noise slightly for a more subtle sound signature. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience that leans towards a bass-heavy tone.
Moving on to feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is described as buttery and even slightly textured, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a hint of friction. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie offers a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, thanks to the all-POM construction of the switch that enhances smoothness and minimizes resistance. Both switches excel in providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, with the Smoothie potentially edging out in terms of a silkier feel due to its specific material composition.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Smoothie linear switches both offer impressive sound and feel qualities. While the Milky Yellow Pro leans towards a bass-heavy, buttery, and slightly textured experience, the Smoothie provides a thocky, subdued sound with a creamy and silky smooth feel. Ultimately, both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, ensuring a satisfying typing or gaming experience with their unique sound and feel characteristics. If you prefer a deeper, richer sound profile with a hint of texture, the Milky Yellow Pro is a solid choice, while the Smoothie offers a smoother, creamier feel for those seeking a more refined typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you are looking for a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing with a medium bottom out force and a "thocky" sound profile, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer an all-POM switch that offers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch with an unspecified bottom out force, then the Smoothie might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in your typing experience. Choose wisely based on the characteristics that matter most to you.
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