Aflion Panda vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two popular choices in the market are the Aflion Panda, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), a linear switch. The Aflion Panda is widely recognized for its unparalleled hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile. It provides a super responsive tactile force and a sonorous audio feedback, catering to those who value hypertactility and a full-bodied typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is known for its smoothness and buttery goodness. With its low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, it excels in both gaming and typing, making it the go-to switch for budget enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the choice between these two switches depends on whether one prefers a sharper and more resonant sound (Panda) or a deeper and fuller sound (Milky Yellow Pro).
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Panda and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) employ nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches will deliver a similar experience. However, it is important to note that the impact on sound when releasing a key is more influenced by the top housing.
It is worth mentioning that if a switch utilizes different materials for its top and bottom housings, the qualities brought by each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. Therefore, the sound and feel when pressing down on the switch will be influenced by the characteristics of the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing a key will be influenced more by the top housing. This distinction should be taken into consideration when choosing between the Aflion Panda and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we can see that they have the same actuation force of 50 grams. This means that both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke, providing a similar tactile feedback. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Panda has a slightly higher measurement of 60 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. Although the difference is minimal, it is worth noting that the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to the increased force required to press all the way down. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Panda switch would be a suitable choice, while those seeking a slightly heavier push feel may prefer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). Ultimately, both switches offer a medium actuation force and provide satisfactory performance for various typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
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 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.
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 tactile switch is best described as resonant. This means that when typing on the Panda switch, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile with a clean and sharp quality. The Panda switch provides an immersive auditory experience with its resonant sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as bassy and low-pitched. The Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Milky Yellow Pro switch has a thocky sound, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying tone when pressed. 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.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Panda switch is accented and invigorating. An accented switch, often used to describe certain types of tactile switches, provides a medium level of tactility that is prominent but not overwhelming or subtle. The Panda switch offers a pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel, creating an invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switch is buttery and textured. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. However, the Milky Yellow Pro switch also has a textured quality, meaning it may have noticeable friction when pressed, which some users prefer for more tactile feedback.
Taking all the available information into account, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer different subjective qualities. The Panda switch excels in terms of its hyper-tactile sensation and resonant thocky sound profile. It provides a super responsive tactile force and a sonorous audio feedback, making it an excellent choice for those who value hypertactility. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switch is a classic budget option known for its smoothness, satisfyingly thick resistance, and buttery typing experience. It is suitable for both gaming and typing, serving as a versatile all-purpose switch. While they differ in sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and budget constraints.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a hyper-tactile sensation and a "thocky" sound profile, the Aflion Panda tactile switch is the way to go. Its medium bottom out force of 60 grams provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. With its resonant sound profile, typing on the Panda switch delivers a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery keystroke experience, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the ideal choice. With its low-pitched and bassy sound, pressing the keys produces a deep and rich tone. The Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly higher medium bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a satisfyingly thick resistance. Overall, choosing between the Aflion Panda and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switches depends on your preference for hyper-tactility and "thocky" sound versus smoothness and buttery goodness.
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