Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the vast landscape of mechanical keyboard switches, two intriguing options come to the forefront: the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2). On one hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro stands out as a quintessential budget-friendly linear switch known for its smooth, buttery operation and a satisfying “thocky” sound. This switch proves versatile, catering equally to gamers and typists alike, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious enthusiasts who prioritize a seamless typing experience. Conversely, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) presents a different approach, emphasizing a balanced typing sensation with a neutral sound profile that delivers the sought-after “thock” without sacrificing the refined tactile feedback. Its dustproof construction adds durability and enhances the keystroke's smoothness, appealing to users who appreciate both performance and a premium feel. While both switches have their unique merits, the choice ultimately hinges on individual preferences for sound and tactile response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) feature contrasting housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic profiles and user experiences. The Milky Yellow Pro employs nylon for its top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This softer plastic absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory response, which many typists find pleasant and satisfying. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) uses polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its rigidity and clarity. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is more crisp and resonant, making it particularly appealing for users looking for a more pronounced feedback when typing.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, creating a commonality that enhances the depth of their auditory experience. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a more muted bottom-out sound, allowing for a deeper acoustical layer when the switch is pressed down. This shared material characteristic means that while the top housings offer divergent sound profiles, the bottom housings provide a consistent, fuller auditory experience across both switches. Consequently, when typing on either switch, the user will experience that familiar roundness and depth from the nylon bottom, regardless of the contrasting top materials.
Ultimately, the combination of differing top and bottom housing materials in the two switches results in a unique yet complementary typing experience. The Milky Yellow Pro’s nylon top synthesizes a warmer sound profile, while the Sticky Rice’s polycarbonate top sharpens it and makes it crisper. Despite their differences, both switches share the characteristic of a nylon bottom, ensuring a foundational similarity in acoustics when the keys are bottomed out. Therefore, one can achieve a balance of responses by choosing either switch: the warmth and depth of the Milky Yellow Pro or the clarity and crispness of the Sticky Rice, all while maintaining a consistent bottom-out experience thanks to the nylon material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, there are notable differences in both forces that cater to varying user preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which qualifies it as a lighter switch overall. This lighter force of the Sticky Rice can be advantageous for users who engage in extended typing or gaming sessions, as it can reduce finger fatigue. Conversely, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Milky Yellow Pro may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, providing a satisfying push-back. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch with a more pronounced resistance, the Milky Yellow Pro would be the better choice, while the Sticky Rice offers a gentler touch for comfort over long periods.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we see a distinction in their design and intended use. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with traditional standards, making it a suitable choice for those who appreciate a deeper keystroke for a more tactile feedback. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to users who prefer quicker actuation and responsiveness, particularly favored by gamers for swift gameplay. This difference indicates that the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a more substantial depth, while the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a snappier feel. Therefore, individuals seeking a more pronounced typing experience might lean towards the Gateron option, whereas those looking for expediency in response time may find the Everglide switch more appealing.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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) produces a deep, rich, and "thocky" noise that many enthusiasts find satisfying, lending itself well to both gaming and typing experiences. Its low-pitched and somewhat bassy characteristics ensure that the audio feedback is pleasant and substantial, giving the user a feeling of solid confirmation upon keystrokes. In contrast, the sound profile of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) remains unknown, which leaves an incomplete picture in terms of how it might compare to the appealing auditory quality of the Milky Yellow Pro. However, it's noteworthy that the overall acoustic experience of either switch can be influenced heavily by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps in use.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has earned its reputation for providing a buttery smooth keystroke, enabling a seamless typing experience that minimizes any sense of friction. Though it provides a thick resistance, some users might find it slightly textured, which can vary in perception among typists. The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is noted for its superior smoothness and a refined typing sensation, enhanced by a dustproof design that reduces wobble and improves overall performance. However, specific descriptors about its feel are not provided, leaving eager users curious about how it stands up to the well-regarded smoothness of the Milky Yellow Pro.
Considering all available information, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) stands out as an encapsulating choice for those seeking a budget-friendly linear switch that maintains quality in both sound and feel. Its thocky sound and buttery keystroke make it a versatile option for various typing contexts, while the specifics of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) remain less defined, particularly regarding sound. Nevertheless, the overarching preference for a smooth typing experience seems to resonate between both switches, allowing users to enjoy satisfying keystrokes in whichever option they choose. Ultimately, while the Milky Yellow Pro may have established attributes to rely on, the Sticky Rice (V2) holds the potential for a unique experience still waiting to be fully unveiled.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), your choice largely depends on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and intended use. If you are looking for a versatile switch that can handle both gaming and typing with ease, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is an excellent option. Its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams provides a satisfying resistance, and its smooth, buttery keystroke combined with a thocky sound signature makes it a fantastic choice for users who enjoy a rich auditory experience alongside tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter touch with a graceful, smooth keystroke, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) may be more to your liking. With a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, this switch offers a refined typing experience that minimizes wobble, making it ideal for those who appreciate a subtle "thock" without the heft. Ultimately, consider your habits, whether you lean towards a budget-friendly, all-rounder switch or a more specialized experience with a focus on nuanced keystrokes and sound, as this will guide you in making the right choice for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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