Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch stand out as top choices. The Blue Sky switch is praised for its crystal clear linear typing experience, featuring a sparkling sound profile and a smooth push feel. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch offers a smooth and affordable typing experience with smooth keystrokes that evoke a buttery smoothness and a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Blue Sky switch is categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched'. 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon, a softer plastic that absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in housing materials between the two switches results in a different typing experience, with the Blue Sky emphasizing a clearer and sharper sound, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a deeper and richer typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the Blue Sky stands out for its translucent polycarbonate top housing, which allows for the use of RGB lighting to enhance the overall look of the switch. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a more classic and understated appearance. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, the split between polycarbonate and nylon in the top housing of the Blue Sky adds a unique visual element to the switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) play a significant role in shaping the typing experience for users. While both switches offer a unique sound profile, with the Blue Sky focusing on a sharper and crisper sound thanks to its polycarbonate top housing, and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) providing a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon top and bottom housings. Whether you prefer a clearer and more resonant typing experience or a deeper and more absorbing sound profile, the choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Sky has a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Milky Red Pro. The Blue Sky requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Milky Red Pro needs 45 grams to actuate and 52 grams to bottom out. This makes the Milky Red Pro a lighter option compared to the Blue Sky. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milky Red Pro, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Blue Sky due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be said that both provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. This means that users can expect a consistent feel and response from both switches when typing or gaming. Overall, whether you choose the Aflion Blue Sky or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), you can expect to get a similar travel distance and tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Blue Sky has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Sky for $4.07.
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 Blue Sky linear switch offers a high-pitched profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a bassy and thocky sound, with a deeper and richer sound profile resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Depending on personal preference, the Blue Sky switch may appeal to those who enjoy a sharper sound, while the Milky Red Pro switch may be preferred by those seeking a deeper, more satisfying thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. The switch is also described as polished, with a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation that is smooth and fluid. Those who prefer a more gentle typing experience may lean towards the Blue Sky switch, while those who enjoy a buttery and uniform feel may find the Milky Red Pro switch more appealing.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Blue Sky switch provides a high-pitched sound and a mild, polished feel, the Milky Red Pro switch offers a bassy, thocky sound and a buttery typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a sharper or deeper sound, and a gentler or buttery feel, you can choose between these two switches to achieve your desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches will provide a quality linear typing experience with their own unique characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a crystal clear linear typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Blue Sky may be the ideal choice for you. The Blue Sky's high-pitched sound profile and mild, polished feel could be well-suited for those seeking a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a budget-friendly switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing sensation, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be more to your liking. The Gateron switch's low-pitched, thocky sound profile and buttery feel make it a great option for those who value a satisfying and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities, and your decision will depend on which features align best with your preferences and typing style.
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