Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches known for their smoothness and performance. The Milky Yellow Pro is praised for its budget-friendly price point, smooth feel, and satisfyingly thick resistance, making it ideal for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unparalleled smoothness, stability, and noise reduction for a silent typing experience. While the Milky Yellow Pro is perfect for budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking a versatile switch, the Zero Degree 0° caters to those looking for a premium silent typing experience. 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
1.80 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, one key difference lies in their top housing materials. While the Milky Yellow Pro features a nylon top housing, which absorbs sound and creates a duller, rounder sound profile, the Zero Degree 0° boasts a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This divergence in housing materials results in distinct typing experiences, with the Milky Yellow Pro offering a softer and deeper sound, while the Zero Degree 0° provides a more clear and resonant typing sound.
However, when it comes to their bottom housing materials, both the Milky Yellow Pro and the Zero Degree 0° utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound absorption qualities. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the switches may still offer slightly different typing experiences based on other factors such as stem material and overall construction. Nonetheless, both switches are likely to provide a similar level of sound dampening and a rounded sound profile due to the shared nylon bottom housing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro offers a softer and deeper typing sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° delivers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches provide a classic and satisfying typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to a fuller sound profile regardless of the differences in their top housing materials. Whether you prefer a duller, rounder sound or a clearer, more resonant sound, both switches have their own unique characteristics to cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro requires 62 grams while the Zero Degree 0° force is unknown. The Milky Yellow Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Zero Degree 0° may be preferred by those looking for a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow Pro has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zero Degree has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro has a longer travel distance compared to the Zero Degree. Typically, a longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper key press feel, while a shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers seeking a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing 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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 deep and bassy sound profile, characterized by a low-pitched thocky sound that is satisfying to the ears. On the other hand, there is limited information available on the sound profile of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch. As sound perception can be subjective and influenced by additional factors such as keycaps and keyboard build, it is essential to consider personal preference when choosing between these two switches.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is known for its buttery and textured keystroke experience, offering a smooth and fluid typing sensation that some users find effortless and uniform. Unfortunately, there is no specific information provided on the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch. Again, individual preferences play a significant role in determining which switch would be more suitable for an individual's typing or gaming needs.
Overall, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Milky Yellow Pro excels in providing a thocky sound and a buttery keystroke experience, the Zero Degree 0° boasts innovative design features aimed at delivering smoothness, stability, and reduced noise. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's specific preferences for sound, feel, and any additional features they may prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a classic budget linear switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. With its smoothness, satisfying resistance, and low "thocky" sound, it's a versatile switch that is a popular choice among budget enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prioritize silent typing with innovative design features that absorb sound and reduce noise, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is your best bet. Its self-padding design and dual-rail structure provide unparalleled smoothness and stability, creating a soft and elastic typing experience. Consider your priorities and preferences to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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