Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch that offers a satisfying poppy and clacky sound profile along with a smooth and creamy tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch known for its smoothness, low "thocky" sound, and thick resistance, making it versatile for both gaming and typing. While the Cream Blue Pro is favored for its lively feedback, the Milky Yellow Pro stands out for its buttery goodness and budget-friendly nature. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), one can see that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which can offer a more satisfying typing experience for users who enjoy a quieter switch. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, the difference in sound between the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may come down to other factors such as switch design or keycap material.
On the other hand, the top housings of the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ, with the former using polycarbonate and the latter utilizing nylon. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its translucency also makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, nylon's softer properties create a deeper and fuller sound, offering a more rounded and muted typing experience. The differing top housing materials between the two switches may result in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback during typing.
When considering how the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) impact the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer their own unique sound profiles and tactile feedback based on the combination of their housing materials, providing users with diverse options to suit their preferences in typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro requires 55 grams while the Milky Yellow Pro requires 62 grams. Both switches provide a medium force experience, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro leaning towards a lighter touch and the Milky Yellow Pro offering a slightly heavier touch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be more suitable. On the other hand, individuals looking for a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may find the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a deeper feel when pressed due to its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is described as having a poppy and clacky sound profile with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its low-pitched, bassy, and thocky sound that offers a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Each switch provides a unique auditory experience that caters to different preferences, with the Cream Blue Pro emphasizing a lively and audible feedback, while the Milky Yellow Pro excels in delivering a satisfyingly thick resistance and bass-heavy sound.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is characterized as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium level of tactility, spring-like feedback, responsiveness, and smooth key travel. In contrast, 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 when pressed. Both switches offer a distinct tactile and typing sensation, catering to users who prefer different levels of tactility and smoothness in their key presses.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch each bring their unique qualities to the table, catering to users with specific preferences in sound and feel. While the Cream Blue Pro offers a lively and poppy sound with a smooth, tactile sensation, the Milky Yellow Pro excels in delivering a bassy and thocky sound with buttery keystrokes. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results in terms of typing experience with either switch, both offering a budget-friendly option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, as well as a creamy tactile sensation, then the V3 Cream Blue Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery linear switch that excels in both gaming and typing, with a satisfyingly thick resistance and a low, thocky sound, then the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the perfect choice for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel, so choose the switch that best matches your typing style and preferences.
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