Aflion Panda vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), a linear switch, each possesses unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Panda stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a precise and sonorous typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) shines for its smooth keystrokes and budget-friendly price point, offering a buttery smoothness and low-pitched "thock" sound. While both switches have their own appeal, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), one noticeable difference is in the top housing material used. The Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the Panda's polycarbonate housing is more resonant and clear, the Milky Red Pro's nylon housing provides a rounder and duller sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) use nylon for this component. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches creates a duller and rounder sound when compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both the Panda and the Milky Red Pro offer a consistent sound experience when typing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. The Aflion Panda with its polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. However, both switches share the use of nylon bottom housings, leading to similar results in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Whether one prefers the clearer and more resonant sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both the Panda and the Milky Red Pro offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we find that the Panda has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams of force while the Milky Red Pro only needs 52 grams. This makes the Milky Red Pro the lighter option overall in terms of force required for both actuation and bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milky Red Pro may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Panda offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent key press experience in terms of distance traveled from the top to the bottom with either switch. Whether typing on the Panda or the Milky Red Pro (KS-3), the tactile feedback and linear response will remain the same, making them equally reliable and suitable for users who prefer a 4 mm travel distance in their switches. Overall, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance, providing consistent results for keyboard enthusiasts.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Panda has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Panda for $3.56.
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) 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 Aflion Panda switch is known for its resonant and hyper-tactile "thocky" sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience with a higher pitch. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch offers a bassy and low-pitched "thock" sound, delivering a deeper and richer tone reminiscent of bass frequencies. Both switches give a satisfying sound feedback, but the Panda leans towards a higher-pitched and resonant sound, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda switch is lauded for its pronounced tactile feedback and invigorating typing sensation, offering a super responsive tactile force that is not overwhelming but provides a prominent amount of tactility. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is known for its buttery and smooth keystrokes, delivering a seamless and effortless typing experience. While the Panda switch focuses on a medium to firm actuation force with a snappy and reactive feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) emphasizes on a uniform and fluid typing sensation without being overly tactile.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda provides a hyper-tactile sensation with a resonant and sharp sound profile, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) delivers a smooth and buttery typing experience with a satisfying low-pitched "thock" sound. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience with either choice. Whether you prefer a heightened tactile response with a resonant sound or a smooth linear feel with a bassy sound, both switches offer quality options that will satisfy your mechanical keyboard needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Panda tactile switch or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize hyper-tactility, a "thocky" sound profile, and a medium bottom out force, the Panda may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and budget-friendly linear switch with a low bottom out force, a buttery keystroke feel, and a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be more to your liking. Consider your desired typing experience and sound profile when making your decision to ensure you find the switch that best suits your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that can enhance your typing experience, so choose wisely based on your preferences.
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