Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two excellent options catering to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its unique poppy and clacky sound, smooth keystrokes, and budget-friendly price point, making it a great choice for those seeking quality without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound, appealing to those who prioritize a smooth and affordable option. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), we can see that both switches feature nylon bottom housings. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. However, while the V3 Cream Black Pro has a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing. The use of nylon in the top housing of the Milky Red Pro will likely result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a different typing experience compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro.
When looking at the housing materials of these switches, it is important to note that the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. This means that even though both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) have nylon bottom housings, their different top housing materials will result in distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro will likely create a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro, which may offer a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing provides a translucent look that is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing may offer a more traditional and classic appearance without the transparency offered by polycarbonate. While both switches may offer a satisfying typing experience due to their nylon bottom housings, the choice between the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, aesthetics, and typing feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the V3 Cream Black Pro has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, perfect for those who prefer a heavier switch. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm while the Milky Red Pro has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro may appeal to gamers seeking a faster response time due to its shorter distance, while the Milky Red Pro may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is noted for its high-pitched and sharp sound profile, offering a crisp and distinct auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is characterized by its bassy and thocky sound, providing a deeper and richer tone reminiscent of a satisfying "thud" or "knock" when keys are pressed and released. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Cream Black Pro offering a more high-pitched sound and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone.
As for the feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is known for its creamy and buttery typing experience, offering a smooth and silky sensation that is akin to effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. Additionally, the Cream Black Pro switch has been described as bouncy and snappy, providing a lively and responsive typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is highlighted for its buttery and fluid keystroke experience, delivering a seamless and uniform typing sensation that is smooth and effortless. Ultimately, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience with slight variations in feel, catering to different preferences in keystroke feedback.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch each have their unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Black Pro switch offers a high-pitched sound and creamy typing experience, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch provides a bassy sound and buttery keystroke feel. Both switches are budget-friendly options that deliver impressive performance and quality, allowing newcomers to the mechanical keyboard scene to enjoy a satisfying typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a sharper sound profile and smooth typing feel or a deeper sound and fluid keystroke experience, either switch can provide excellent results for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique poppy sound with smoothness, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be a great fit. Consider your preferences in terms of sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for different typing experiences, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
