Aflion Blue Sky vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options are the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Blue Sky is a linear switch known for its long pole stem, offering a crystal clear linear typing experience. With a sparkling sound profile and exquisitely smooth push feel, it falls into the category of being high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is a budget-friendly switch from Gateron that embodies smoothness and buttery goodness. It excels in both gaming and typing, thanks to its low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance. Categorized as bassy, buttery, low-pitched, textured, and thocky, the Milky Yellow Pro is a popular choice among budget enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ when it comes to their top housings. The Blue Sky features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its translucent nature is ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, if sound profile and aesthetics are important, the choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to whether one prefers a clearer and resonant sound (Blue Sky) or a deeper and fuller sound (Milky Yellow Pro).
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Blue Sky and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon. This means that they share similar qualities in terms of creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, known as a classic switch housing material, absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, when pressing down on either of these switches, the experience will be quite similar in terms of the sound and feel. This makes them suitable options for users who prioritize a specific sound profile over other factors.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Blue Sky and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in their top housings but share similarities in their bottom housings. The blue Sky's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches, however, have nylon bottom housings, which absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound. Hence, if one prioritizes sound profile, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether they prefer a sharper and crisper sound (Blue Sky) or a deeper and fuller sound (Milky Yellow Pro).
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we find that both switches have a similar actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference. The Blue Sky has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro is slightly heavier in terms of the force required to fully press the key down.
Considering the weight of the switches, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Aflion Blue Sky more suitable, as it has a slightly lighter bottom out force. This allows for longer periods of typing, making it ideal for extended work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro with its slightly heavier bottom out force may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed, and it is the distance that users feel when they press down on a key. In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is apparent that both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience a similar feel when pressing down on the keys of either switch. Therefore, there is no significant difference between the travel distances of these switches as both offer the same 4 mm travel distance.
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 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 Blue Sky linear switch is best characterized as having a high-pitched sound profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which is ideal for those who prefer a more vibrant and clear sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound. The sound produced by these switches is deeper and richer, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Milky Yellow Pro switch is known for its thocky sound, which is a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Overall, the Blue Sky and Milky Yellow Pro switches offer contrasting sound profiles, with the Blue Sky being high-pitched and the Milky Yellow Pro having a bassy and thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. The mild nature of these switches offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls in a safe and middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the Blue Sky switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This is due to the use of high-quality materials and potential factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its buttery and textured feel. The buttery nature of these switches implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. However, some users may prefer a textured or scratchy feel, which adds a subtle friction when pressed. This preference for texture varies from user to user.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics. The Blue Sky switch provides a high-pitched sound with a mild and polished typing experience, while the Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a bassy, thocky sound and a buttery, textured feel. These differences allow users to choose the switch that aligns with their preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Ultimately, both switches are excellent choices depending on the desired sound and feel, and users can expect satisfying results from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a sparkling, high-pitched sound profile and an exquisitely smooth push feel, the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch is the way to go. With its long pole stem, it offers a crystal clear linear typing experience that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users alike. Additionally, if you prefer a mild and polished typing experience, these switches provide a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel, ensuring a gentle and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the perfect choice. Its low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance make it a versatile switch suitable for all-purpose use. Moreover, if you prefer a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, these switches offer a deeper and richer sound during key presses. In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches provide a buttery and textured typing experience, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Blue Sky and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches comes down to your personal preferences. Consider whether you prioritize a high-pitched and crystal clear sound with an exquisitely smooth push feel, or if you prefer a thocky and bassy sound with a buttery and textured typing experience. By understanding the unique characteristics of each switch, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
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