Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Jerrzi Violet 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 Jerrzi Violet offer two distinct experiences. The Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch known for its smoothness and satisfying resistance, making it ideal for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet is a tactile switch with a smooth actuation and pleasing tactility, providing a balanced typing experience. While the Milky Yellow Pro excels in all-purpose use with its "thocky" sound, the Violet offers a gentler typing experience with a neutral sound signature. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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 key difference between the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Jerrzi Violet lies in their top housing materials. The Milky Yellow Pro features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Violet's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. This distinction results in a significant difference in sound experience for users of these switches.
On the other hand, both the Milky Yellow Pro and the Jerrzi Violet share a nylon bottom housing material. This classic switch housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. As a result, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches, impacting the overall typing experience for users. Despite the similar bottom housing material, the striking contrast in their top housing materials contributes to the unique sound profiles offered by each switch.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles in the sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, understanding the differences in housing materials between switches like the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro and the Jerrzi Violet is essential for users seeking a specific sound profile and typing experience. By considering the properties of nylon and polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings, users can choose a switch that best suits their preferences and needs.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is clear that the Milky Yellow Pro is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Violet is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force for the Violet switch is unknown. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces. Some may prefer the slightly heavier Milky Yellow Pro for a more substantial typing feel, while others may opt for the lighter Violet switch for a smoother typing experience that allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of preferred actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it can be seen that the Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Violet's 3.7 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, while the Violet falls on the shorter end. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Violet for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the user's preference for travel distance in their 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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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) offers a deep and rich "thocky" sound with a low-pitched profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch is described as having a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Milky Yellow Pro giving a bassy and thocky tone while the Violet switch remains more neutral in its sound characteristics, catering to different preferences in terms of auditory feedback.
Moving on to feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is praised for its buttery and smooth keystroke experience, ensuring a seamless typing sensation that is effortless and uniform. On the contrary, the Jerrzi Violet switch is described as stepped, offering a tactile response that feels more mild in comparison to hypersensitive switches, providing a slight pre-travel and post-travel sensation during keystrokes. The Milky Yellow Pro delivers a textured feel that some users may enjoy, while the Violet switch caters to those who prefer a more subdued tactile experience with its stepped design.
Taking all the information into account, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Jerrzi Violet switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow Pro excels in providing a deep, rich sound profile with a buttery smooth typing experience, making it ideal for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch offers a neutral sound signature and a stepped tactile feel, appealing to users who prefer a gentler tactile response. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch or the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, you should opt for the Milky Yellow Pro if you value a smooth and buttery typing experience with a satisfyingly thick resistance, suitable for both gaming and typing purposes. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch would be more ideal if you prefer a gentle tactile feedback accompanied by a neutral sound signature for a balanced and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs, whether you prioritize smoothness and versatility with the Milky Yellow Pro or enjoy a subtle tactile feel with the Violet switch.
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