Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch known for its smoothness and buttery feel. With a low, "thocky" sound and satisfying resistance, it performs exceptionally well for both gaming and typing purposes, making it a versatile choice. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer a profound tactile bump and a tactile force of 70g, delivering a satisfying resistance with every keystroke. These switches also produce a captivating sound profile with their nylon housings contributing to a resonant "thocky" resonance. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile both utilize nylon as their housing material. This classic switch housing material offers similar benefits for both switches. Typing on switches that use nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition. The nylon housing absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience with both switches, providing a satisfying auditory feedback while typing.
Although both switches share the same nylon material for their top housings, the impact they have on the sound profile differs slightly. The bottom housing of a switch influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when you release a key. Since the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and WS Heavy Tactile have different bottom housings despite using the same nylon material, the qualities attributed to the bottom housing will be distinct for each switch. Therefore, users can expect slight variations in the bottom-out sound and feel between the two switches.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the WS Heavy Tactile will have more similarities. Nylon's inherent properties, such as its softness and sound absorption capabilities, are reflected in the bottom housing of both switches. Both switches benefit from the nylon's ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a result, users will experience a consistent auditory feedback when bottoming out keys, irrespective of the switch they choose.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile share the same nylon housing material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. Although their bottom housings are different, the nylon material in both switches ensures a consistent and satisfying sound experience when bottoming out keys. The slight differences in the bottom-out sound and feel can be attributed to the distinct qualities of their respective bottom housings. Nonetheless, users can expect similar results and a tangible improvement in the overall typing experience with either switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, the main difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Milky Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of weight. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch does not provide information about its actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 45 grams, placing it in the light category.
Considering the weight of the switches is crucial as it affects the typing experience for individuals. Those who prefer lighter switches often opt for extended typing periods, making them ideal for work or long gaming sessions. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel during their typing experience tend to gravitate towards switches with heavier forces.
In this case, the Milky Yellow Pro presents a balanced option with its medium actuation and bottom out forces. This switch provides a relatively consistent force throughout keystrokes. On the contrary, the information about the actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile switch is unavailable, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison, but its bottom out force of 45 grams suggests a lighter and potentially more responsive typing experience.
While the actuation force for the WS Heavy Tactile switch is unknown, one can still presume that it is likely lighter than the Milky Yellow Pro due to the significant difference in their bottom out forces. Those who value a lighter touch and quicker keystrokes may find the WS Heavy Tactile switch to be more suitable for their preferences. In contrast, users seeking a slightly heavier switch for a more substantial typing feel may be inclined towards the Milky Yellow Pro. Overall, both switches provide options for distinct typing experiences, with the Milky Yellow Pro leaning towards a medium weight while the WS Heavy Tactile tends to be lighter.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly longer distance to travel compared to the WS Heavy Tactile. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while a distance of 3.2 mm is shallower. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, as they can quickly press down on keys. However, for some individuals, shorter travel distances may feel too abrupt. Those who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on keys might opt for the switch with the longer travel distance. Overall, the choice depends on personal preference and whether one prioritizes faster response times or a more satisfying depth to the key press. Ultimately, both switches offer different travel distances, so it is important to consider the desired experience and choose accordingly.
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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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) switch is characterized by a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. These switches offer a deep and rich sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch produces a clacky and resonant sound. It offers a sharp and snappy sound, with a clean and sharp higher-pitched sound profile. The Wuque Heavy Tactile switches provide a more crisp and bright sound compared to the bass-heavy sound of the Milky Yellow Pro. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, in general, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound, the Milky Yellow Pro would be a better choice, while the WS Heavy Tactile offers a crisper and brighter sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Milky Yellow Pro is known for its buttery and textured feel. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The texture of the switch can vary depending on personal preference, with some users preferring a smoother, friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers an accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel. It provides a medium-level of tactility, providing a prominent amount of feedback without being overwhelming. These switches have a lively and rebounding feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. The sharp and crisp tactile bump can be felt distinctly with each keypress. If you prefer a smoother and fluid typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro would be a suitable choice, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more pronounced and bouncy tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow Pro provides a deep, thocky, and buttery sound with a smooth and textured keystroke experience. It is a versatile switch suitable for both gaming and typing purposes. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a clacky and resonant sound with an accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel. It provides a more pronounced tactile feedback and creates an engaging and immersive typing experience. Both switches have their distinct qualities and it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a classic budget switch that offers smoothness and a satisfyingly thick resistance, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the ideal choice. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it excels in both gaming and typing, making it a versatile all-purpose switch. The Milky Yellow Pro also boasts a low-pitched, bassy, and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. In terms of feel, it is described as buttery, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you crave an engaging and immersive typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is the way to go. With a light bottom out force of 45 grams, it provides a satisfying resistance with each keystroke. The WS Heavy Tactile switch also offers a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, ensuring a crisp and sharp auditory feedback. In terms of feel, it is described as accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch depends on your preferences for resistance, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium resistance switch with a low-pitched, bassy sound and a smooth, buttery feel, the Milky Yellow Pro is the switch for you. Conversely, if you desire a light resistance switch with a clacky, high-pitched sound and a pronounced tactile feel, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is the better option. Consider your typing style and preferences to select the switch that aligns with your needs.
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