Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Yellow Silver are two popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Milky Yellow Pro is a budget switch that offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience with its low and "thocky" sound. It is known for its versatility, excelling in both gaming and typing scenarios. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu is favored by gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. With its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, it provides a quick and efficient typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches have differing materials for their top housings. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. In contrast, the Yellow Silver switch features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Yellow Silver switches share the same material - nylon. Nylon is known as a classic switch housing material that enhances the overall sound experience. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Thus, both switches offer a similar auditory experience, contributing to a more rounded and duller sound when typing.
However, it should be noted that when a switch has different materials for the top and bottom housings, each housing material will impact different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more noticeable, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, while the materials for the bottom housings are the same for both switches, the different top housing materials will contribute to variations in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Yellow Silver's 45 grams. However, both switches fall within the medium range, providing a satisfying push feel without being too heavy.
In terms of bottom out force, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro requires 62 grams of force to fully press down, while the Outemu Yellow Silver requires 55 grams. This means that the Gateron switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience when fully pressed down, while the Outemu switch offers a lighter touch.
It's worth noting that both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range for bottom out force, so the difference may not be very significant. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to avoid fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming sessions, the Outemu Yellow Silver may be the preferable choice. On the other hand, if a stronger push feeling is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro would be the better option. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer a range of preferences, allowing users to find their desired balance between weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch are both 4 mm. This means that when you press down on the keys, you will feel a similar travel distance for both switches. Neither switch has a shorter or longer travel distance compared to the other. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) or the Outemu Yellow Silver, you can expect to have a consistent and comparable travel distance 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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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) is best described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky. These switches offer a deep and rich sound profile with a lower frequency range, similar to bass tones. When pressed and released, they produce a satisfying "thud" or "knock" sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound. It is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you use it at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is described as buttery and textured. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, giving a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Some users might prefer a subtle texture on the switches, while others prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch.
Based on the available information, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a smooth and buttery feel, with a deep and rich sound profile. It is known for its low-pitched and thocky sound, making it suitable for both gaming and typing purposes. The Outemu Yellow Silver switch, on the other hand, is described as having a neutral sound profile and no specific information is available on its feel. Overall, if you prefer a budget-friendly switch with a smooth feel and deep sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and unknown feel, the Outemu Yellow Silver may also provide similar results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. With its medium bottom out force and smooth, "thocky" sound, it offers a satisfying and versatile typing experience. It's the go-to switch for budget enthusiasts and provides a buttery, seamless keystroke experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize speediness and responsiveness in your typing and gaming, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is a great choice. With a lighter bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, it offers a fast and efficient typing experience. It is particularly favorable for gamers and typists who prefer a lighter touch.
When it comes to sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) delivers a deep and rich bass-heavy tone, adding depth and richness to the typing experience. The Yellow Silver, on the other hand, has a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes and environments.
In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a buttery and textured typing experience, ensuring smooth and fluid keystrokes. The Yellow Silver does not have a specific feel description mentioned.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Yellow Silver comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you value versatility and a classic budget switch, go for the Milky Yellow Pro. If speed and responsiveness are your top priorities, the Yellow Silver would be the better option. Make sure to consider sound and feel preferences as well. Happy typing!
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