Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow linear switch from Aflion is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switches from Gateron are known for their smooth keystrokes and affordable price, offering a buttery smoothness and a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Cloudy Shadow focuses on a mild and neutral typing experience, the Milky Red Pro switches offer a more bassy and thocky feel. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), one can see that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. However, the Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate of the Cloudy Shadow.
Despite both switches using nylon for the bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials greatly impact the sound profile of the switches. The Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing adds a sharp and clear resonance to the sound, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound. This distinction in top housing materials can make a significant difference in the overall typing experience, depending on the user's preference for sound and feel. While both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, the choice between a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound will ultimately come down to personal preference.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are essential in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch. The Cloudy Shadow and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) showcase how differing top housing materials can result in distinct sound profiles, even when using the same bottom housing material. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Cloudy Shadow and the all-nylon construction of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offer users the opportunity to choose between a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound based on their individual preferences in typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is clear that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is lighter with a bottom out force of 52 grams, which is classified as medium-light. The actuation force of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is 45 grams, while the Cloudy Shadow's actuation force is not specified. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Milky Red Pro (KS-3), as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with lighter switches being more suitable for extended use and heavier switches providing a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we can see that the Cloudy Shadow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Milky Red Pro's 4 mm. The Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances and offer a satisfying typing experience, but the slight difference in travel distance may appeal to different preferences based on individual typing style and needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize quick responsiveness or a more substantial key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloudy Shadow for $3.91.
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 Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is characterized by a bassy and thocky sound, providing a deep and rich auditory experience with a lower frequency range. While both switches offer pleasing sound profiles, the Cloudy Shadow leans towards a more neutral and mellow tone compared to the rich and deep sound of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3).
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless, effortless, and uniform. Both switches offer comfortable typing experiences, with the Cloudy Shadow offering a mild and gentle approach while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a buttery smoothness that enhances typing comfort.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both offer pleasant sound profiles and comfortable typing experiences, they differ in their sound and feel qualities. The Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral and mellow sound with a mild typing feel, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) delivers a rich and deep sound with a buttery smooth typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, users can choose between the soothing neutrality of the Cloudy Shadow or the rich smoothness of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) to enhance their typing satisfaction. Ultimately, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience based on their respective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a bouncy typing feel, the Cloudy Shadow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the ideal option. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Cloudy Shadow being low-pitched and neutral, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style when selecting between these two high-quality linear switches.
Mentioned in this article
