Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Snow 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 Dareu Snow both offer unique qualities worth considering. The Milky Yellow Pro is a classic budget switch that provides a smooth and buttery typing experience with a satisfyingly thick resistance, making it ideal for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow stands out with its innovative use of POK material, resulting in a deeper sound signature while typing. Both switches have their own set of characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Snow both boast unique housing materials that contribute to their overall performance. The Milky Yellow Pro features a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Snow is equipped with a POK top housing that provides a smooth and durable experience, with exceptional wear and shock resistance. While both materials offer different benefits, they each enhance the typing experience in their own way.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Milky Yellow Pro and the Snow utilize nylon for its softer properties that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in material choice suggests that both switches are likely to have a similar bottom-out sound and feel when pressed. However, the difference in top housing materials between the two switches may create variations in the sound when releasing a key. The nylon bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and overall feel.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Snow will ultimately come down to personal preference. The nylon top and bottom housing of the Milky Yellow Pro offer a distinctive sound profile, while the POK top housing of the Snow provides a smooth and clacky typing experience. Both switches prioritize durability and performance, making them reliable options for enthusiasts looking to enhance their typing experience. Whether you prefer the softer sound of nylon or the smoothness of POK, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch have similar actuation forces, both requiring 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is slightly heavier at 62 grams compared to the Snow's 60 grams. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience in terms of force required to fully press down the key. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Snow may be the better choice as it has a slightly lighter bottom out force. Both switches fall into the medium weight category, making them suitable for a wide range of users who may prefer either a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's personal preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow Pro has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, compared to the Snow's shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional keypress feel, while the Snow's 3.3 mm distance offers a shallower and potentially faster response time. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the Snow switch, while those who enjoy a deeper keypress sensation may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its low-pitched and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfyingly deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch also offers a thocky sound with a deeper sound signature due to its innovative use of POK material in the top housing and stem. Both switches provide a similar experience in terms of sound, with a focus on delivering a pleasant and satisfying auditory feedback to the user.
In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is often described as buttery and smooth, offering a seamless and effortless typing experience. It provides a uniform sensation with a satisfying resistance that appeals to both gaming and typing enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds a lively feel to the typing experience. While both switches offer different tactile sensations, they both aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Snow linear switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) excels in providing a thocky sound profile and a buttery feel, the Dareu Snow switch stands out with its deeper sound signature and bouncy tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between these switches to tailor their typing experience to their liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, and users can expect similar levels of satisfaction and performance from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, you should consider the factors that matter most to you. If you are looking for a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing with a smooth and satisfying feel, then the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an innovative material and a deeper sound signature, then the Dareu Snow switch might be more up your alley. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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