Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, you will be met with distinctive characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switches are the ultimate choice for those seeking a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, known for their buttery smoothness and pleasing, low-pitched “thock” sound. Each switch has its own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics to enhance the overall typing experience. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with a clear and resonant quality. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) incorporates nylon for both top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is duller and rounder in comparison to polycarbonate. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and clarity, while nylon is praised for its softer, more absorptive qualities.
Despite their differences, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) share similar attributes when it comes to housing materials. The nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) produces a deep and full sound profile, much like the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Crystal Pro does. When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches offer qualities that impact the bottom-out sound and feel, with polycarbonate providing a sharp and crisp sound compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by nylon. Overall, while they may have different housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel when typing on switches from both models.
In summary, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The polycarbonate housing of the V3 Crystal Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more defined typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a deeper and fuller sound that may appeal to users seeking a softer and more rounded feel when typing. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, making them both excellent options for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are some noticeable differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 45 grams, making it slightly more resistant to accidental keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams, while the Milky Red Pro only needs 52 grams, making it lighter to press all the way down. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro provides a more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro offers a lighter touch, perfect for longer typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which can be preferred by gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a unique and chirpy sound profile, adding a distinctive squeak to each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a deeper and bassier sound with a satisfying "thock" on each key press. If you prefer a brighter and more playful sound, the V3 Crystal Pro might be the way to go, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a richer and more satisfying sound experience.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch provides a bouncy and polished typing experience, with keys that offer a spring-like feedback and a smooth finish for a sleek typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels effortless and uniform. If you prefer a livelier and more rebounding typing feel, the V3 Crystal Pro might be the better choice, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a smoother and more consistent typing sensation.
Overall, when considering the sound and feel of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a chirpy sound and bouncy feel, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassier sound with a buttery smooth feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is a great option. Both switches offer a linear typing experience and provide a range of subjective qualities that can cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and budget-friendly option with a low-pitched "thock" sound and a buttery feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the better fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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