Aflion Blush vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blush and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) are both linear switches that offer unique characteristics and advantages for different preferences. The Blush, Aflion's best linear offering, is known for its impressively smooth and snappy typing experience, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring. Additionally, its long pole creates a distinctive poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is a classic budget switch from Gateron that excels in both gaming and typing. It offers a satisfyingly thick resistance and a low, "thocky" sound that many enthusiasts appreciate. While both switches are categorized as 'buttery' and 'low-pitched', they also have their unique qualities - the Blush is described as 'creamy', 'silky', and 'buttery', while the Milky Yellow Pro is categorized as 'textured' and 'bassy'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of their housing materials. The Blush has a polycarbonate top housing, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blush creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, due to its relatively stiffer plastic. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. So while the Blush offers a more clear and resonant sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a duller and rounder sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Blush and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) use nylon as the material. This choice of housing material gives these switches a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Both switches offer a similar sound profile because of the nylon bottom housing. Therefore, if you prioritize the typing sound experience, you can expect similar results from both the Blush and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in determining the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing has a stronger influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on a key, while the top housing impacts the sound when you release a key. With the Blush's polycarbonate top housing, you will experience a more pronounced sound profile when releasing keys, highlighting the crispness and sharpness of the sound. Conversely, the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) will contribute to a rounder sound when releasing keys. The housing materials of the switches will ensure a distinct sound experience for both the actuation and release of keys, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is important to note that both switches have a medium bottom out force. The Blush switch has an actuation force that is currently unknown, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) requires a force of 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of weight, some individuals may prefer lighter switches like the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) as it allows for extended typing or gaming sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for heavier switches, although the actual actuation force of the Blush switch is currently unavailable. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium bottom out force, providing a satisfactory typing experience for individuals with different preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Aflion Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. These distances fall within the range of what is considered typical for switch travel. The Blush's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers who prioritize faster response times, as the shorter distance allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth. Both switches offer distinct experiences, but with similar results in terms of their functionality as keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Blush has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blush 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blush switch offers a low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky. This means that it provides a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience, with the Blush switch leaning towards a mellow tone and the Milky Yellow Pro switch providing a more pronounced bass and satisfying "thock" sound.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush switch is known for its creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. These terms indicate that the switch offers a smooth and effortless typing sensation, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switch is described as buttery and textured. This means that it also provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, but some users might notice a subtle texture or friction when pressing the keys. Overall, both switches offer a highly desirable typing experience, allowing for comfortable and effortless keystrokes.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Aflion Blush and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches have their unique qualities. While the Blush switch is known for its longer, two-stage spring that offers an impressively smooth and snappy feel, as well as a poppy sound signature, the Milky Yellow Pro switch embodies smoothness and buttery goodness. It excels in both gaming and typing, making it a versatile all-purpose switch, and is a popular choice among budget enthusiasts.
In terms of sound, the Blush switch provides a low-pitched tone, while the Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a bassy and thocky sound. In terms of feel, both switches offer a creamy and buttery typing experience, with the Blush switch also being silky, and the Milky Yellow Pro switch having a textured option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. However, it is safe to say that both switches will deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a switch with a slightly lower bottom out force and a poppy sound signature, the Aflion Blush linear switch might be the better choice for you. It offers an impressively smooth and snappy typing feel, thanks to its longer two-stage spring. The Blush is best known for its creamy and silky typing experience, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. On the other hand, if you're looking for a budget-friendly switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the way to go. With its low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, it's a popular choice among budget enthusiasts. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its buttery keystroke experience, providing a smooth and fluid typing sensation. However, it's important to note that some users may prefer a slightly textured or scratchy feel when pressing keys, and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers that option. Overall, both switches have their strengths and can cater to different preferences. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which features are most important for your typing experience.
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