Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the SP-Star Duck are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch loved for its smoothness and satisfying resistance. With its low, "thocky" sound and textured feel, it is an exceptional choice for both gaming and typing. This budget switch from Gateron is highly regarded by enthusiasts and offers a fantastic all-purpose experience. On the other hand, the Duck switches provide a more subtle tactile typing experience. With a clean and crispy sound profile, they offer a mild yet noticeable tactility when typing. Both switches have their unique qualities and advantages, but let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the SP-Star Duck provide distinct sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features nylon top and bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's softness absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Duck has polycarbonate top and bottom housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is advantageous for RGB lighting applications. Overall, the differing housing materials of these switches lead to contrasting sound experiences and aesthetic preferences.
When it comes to the impact on the sound and feel of pressing down on a key, the properties of the bottom housing come into play. The bottom housing of both switches influences the bottom-out sound and the tactile feedback during typing. The nylon bottom housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) contributes to a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound, given its softness and sound-absorbing qualities. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck results in a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound, owing to its stiffer nature. This difference in bottom housing material creates distinct tactile experiences for typists using these switches.
Conversely, the top housing material primarily affects the sound when releasing a key. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) contributes to a deeper and fuller sound upon key release, mirroring its impact on the bottom-out sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Duck produces a more clear and resonant sound when a key is let go. As such, the top housing material of these switches plays a crucial role in the sound profile during key release. Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials, both switches offer unique qualities and experiences depending on the phase of typing, creating a well-rounded auditory experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Milky Yellow Pro requires 50 grams to trigger a keystroke, whereas the exact actuation force for the Duck switch is unknown. However, both switches fall under the category of medium actuation force.
Moving on to bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro has a bottom out force of 62 grams, slightly heavier than its actuation force. On the other hand, the Duck switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Milky Yellow Pro.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter feel when typing for extended periods may lean towards the Duck switch since it has a lighter bottom out force. This would be beneficial for individuals using the keyboard for work or indulging in long gaming sessions. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Milky Yellow Pro, with its heavier bottom out force, might be the preferred choice.
In summary, while both switches have medium actuation forces, the Milky Yellow Pro is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Duck switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience in terms of the distance you feel when you press down on a key. Neither switch is shorter or longer than the other in this aspect. Therefore, whether you choose the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro or the SP-Star Duck, you can expect to get the same travel distance and tactile feedback when typing or gaming.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 characterized by its deep and rich bass tones, resulting in a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. When pressed, it produces a satisfyingly deep "thud" or soft "knock" sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch has a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate sound level and actuation force requirement. It provides a clean and crispy sound when typing. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Overall, if you prefer a deeper and bass-heavy sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be a great choice, while the SP-Star Duck offers a more subtle and neutral sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the SP-Star Duck switch offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is described as buttery, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. It offers a uniform feel throughout the keystrokes. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch also has a buttery feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubrication, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The SP-Star Duck switch is also described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and refined feel, with the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) focusing more on a uniform and textured experience, while the SP-Star Duck offers a polished and mild feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the SP-Star Duck switches provide different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound, offering a deep and satisfying typing experience. Its feel is described as buttery and textured, providing a seamless and uniform keystroke experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch is characterized by a more neutral sound profile, offering a clean and crispy sound. Its feel is described as mild, buttery, and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and the choice between them would depend on personal preferences. However, if you prefer a similar overall experience, both switches offer a buttery and smooth feel, providing a comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly switch that performs well in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is an excellent choice. Known for its smoothness and satisfying resistance, these switches provide a "thocky" sound that is deep and rich. They offer a buttery and textured feel, giving you a seamless and effortless typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is perfect for you. These switches have a clean and crispy sound profile, with a neutral actuation force requirement. They offer a mild and buttery feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize smoothness, a "thocky" sound, and textured feel, the Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go. However, if you prefer a more subtle tactile experience, with a clean sound and polished feel, the Duck switch is the better option.
In the end, both switches have their unique strengths and characteristics, and it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. Whichever switch you choose, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro and the SP-Star Duck will provide you with a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
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