Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Jade mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro is renowned for its smoothness and buttery feel, making it a versatile option suitable for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the WS Jade stands out with its metallic insert creating a bright sound profile and a unique typing experience that is described as creamy and smooth. While the Milky Yellow Pro boasts a low, "thocky" sound, the WS Jade offers a resonant and clacky typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that make them appealing options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. While the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) uses nylon for its top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, the WS Jade opts for a POM top housing that creates a unique and pleasing sound with a deeper tone and a more muted quality. This contrast in material not only affects the sound produced by typing on the switches but also adds to the overall tactile experience of using these switches.
Another point of comparison can be drawn from the bottom housing material of each switch. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, mirroring the qualities of the top housing and contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Meanwhile, the WS Jade incorporates a POM bottom housing, similarly emphasizing a deeper sound profile but with a more muted characteristic. This difference in bottom housing material further impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, showcasing how the choice of material can influence the user experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials for the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through their unique sound profiles. While the nylon and POM materials offer their own distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, both switches ultimately deliver a deep and fuller sound when compared to switches with harder plastic housings. Therefore, users can expect a similar level of typing satisfaction from both switches, though with nuances in sound and tactile feedback based on the material used for the top and bottom housings.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switches both have a similar actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally responsive in triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier force of 62 grams compared to the WS Jade's 60 grams. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro provides a slightly more substantial typing experience when fully pressing the keys down. For those who prefer a lighter key press, the WS Jade may be the better option, as it has a slightly lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding typing experience and the desired level of force needed for key actuation and bottoming out.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Gamers who value faster response times may find the WS Jade more appealing due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, with the WS Jade being the shorter option and the Milky Yellow Pro offering a slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30 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) linear switch is praised for its bassy and thocky characteristics, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound, providing a sharp and snappy sound experience that is clean and sharp. The Milky Yellow Pro emits a low-pitched and thocky tone, while the WS Jade produces a marbly and resonant sound. Depending on personal preference and the setup of your keyboard, both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing or gaming experience.
As for feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is described as buttery and textured, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the WS Jade offers a silky and creamy feel, boasting an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The creamy sensation of the WS Jade switch allows for a gliding feeling across the keys, enhancing the typing experience with each keystroke. The Milky Yellow Pro's textured feel may appeal to users who prefer a bit of friction during typing.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milky Yellow Pro delivers a bassy and thocky sound with a buttery and textured feel, the WS Jade provides a clacky and resonant sound with a silky and creamy typing experience. Depending on personal preference, budget, and intended use, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, users can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with either switch, allowing for customization based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switches, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a deep and satisfying "thocky" sound and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright, resonant sound with a metallic insert in the stem base and a silky, creamy typing feel, the WS Jade switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of sound and feel you find most appealing in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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