Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow linear switch from Aflion is known 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 Yellow Pro (KS-3) by Gateron is celebrated for its smoothness and buttery goodness, offering a low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance that excels in both gaming and typing. While the Cloudy Shadow leans towards a mild and neutral typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro stands out with its bassy and textured feel. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will come down to personal preference and specific needs; 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both feature nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, the Cloudy Shadow stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The difference in sound characteristics between the two switches can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate compared to the softness of nylon. While nylon absorbs more sound and creates a duller sound, polycarbonate's rigidity leads to a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) does not offer this feature with its nylon top housing. Despite this difference, both switches share the classic switch housing material of nylon for their bottom housing, providing a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing. It is interesting to note how the choice of housing material can not only impact the sound but also the visual presentation of the switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and aesthetic appeal of the switches. While both switches feature nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, the distinction lies in the top housing material. The Cloudy Shadow's use of polycarbonate creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, complemented by the ability to showcase RGB lighting. Conversely, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a softer and rounder sound with its nylon top housing. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound and aesthetics is essential for keyboard enthusiasts looking for switches that meet their specific preferences.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch both offer a smooth keystroke experience, but with differences in force requirements. The Aflion Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, putting it in the medium category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro for its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow's heavier bottom-out force may be preferred. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, offering a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, whether you prefer the shorter or longer travel distance will depend on your personal preference and typing style.
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 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 Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound signature, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing scenarios. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch presents a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, delivering a deeper and richer tone during key presses that is satisfying to the ears. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Cloudy Shadow excelling in a more balanced and neutral sound, while the Milky Yellow Pro stands out with its rich, thocky sound that resonates deeply.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, 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. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery and textured, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with noticeable friction for those who prefer a bit of texture in their switches. Both switches offer different tactile sensations, with the Cloudy Shadow focusing on a mild and gentle feel, while the Milky Yellow Pro excelling in a smooth and textured typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Cloudy Shadow offers a balanced and neutral sound with a mild typing experience, while the Milky Yellow Pro delivers a rich, thocky sound and a buttery, textured feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both options providing a satisfying typing experience tailored to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you should consider the following factors. Choose the Cloudy Shadow if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a neutral sound signature with a bouncy feel. This switch offers a balanced typing experience suitable for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, opt for the Milky Yellow Pro if you prefer a medium bottom-out force and a smooth, buttery keystroke experience. This switch excels in both gaming and typing, making it a versatile option for all-purpose use. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference based on bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
Mentioned in this article
