Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both stand out as popular linear options. The Akashi distinguishes itself with a UPE stem and a unique housing combination of POM top and nylon bottom, resulting in a bright bottom-out sound with deep acoustic richness. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is praised for its smoothness, "thocky" sound, and versatile performance in gaming and typing. While the Akashi offers a novel and resonant typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro excels as a budget-friendly, all-purpose switch. 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
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), we find that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon housing. Therefore, both the Akashi and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and profile when it comes to their bottom housing material.
However, where the two switches differ is in their top housing material. The Akashi features a POM top housing that creates a unique and pleasing sound which is on the deeper and relatively more muted side. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing that also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The difference lies in the specific sound qualities each material brings, with POM offering a different tonal profile compared to the more classic nylon material.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the housing materials of the Akashi and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) play a significant role in determining the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a deeper and fuller typing experience. Meanwhile, the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch. Despite their differences in top housing material, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles attributed to their respective housing materials.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Similarly, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akashi requires 43 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro requires 62 grams, indicating a heavier feel. The lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Akashi make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Milky Yellow Pro provide a more substantial typing feel, preferred by those who like a stronger push. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Akashi has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Milky Yellow Pro. The Akashi's 3.7 mm distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro's 4 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance - whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness with a shorter distance, or prefer a longer distance for a more deliberate key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is known for its clacky and bright bottom-out sound, providing a crisp and percussive typing experience. In comparison, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, characterized by a deeper and richer tone that resonates with each key press. Both switches provide unique auditory feedback, with the Akashi delivering a more sharp and snappy sound, while the Milky Yellow Pro offers a deep and satisfying thocky sound, ideal for those who prefer a bass-heavy tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Akashi is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These qualities contribute to a smooth and effortless typing experience, with a refined finish and reduced friction for enhanced comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its buttery and textured feel, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation with noticeable friction for those who appreciate a textured keystroke. Both switches offer a smooth and responsive feel, catering to different preferences in typing comfort.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch each offer a distinct sound and feel profile that caters to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Akashi excels in providing a bright and clacky sound with a creamy and easy-to-press feel, while the Milky Yellow Pro stands out for its bassy thocky sound and buttery textured feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience, these switches offer a range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a unique and resonant typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a unique sound experience with a bright, crisp bottom-out and resonant keystrokes, the Akashi may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and buttery typing sensation with a low-pitched, thocky sound profile, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a clacky, creamy, or bassy feel and sound in your mechanical keyboard switches. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles, so it's essential to choose based on what suits you best.
Mentioned in this article
