Akko Fairy vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, both options offer a smooth typing experience ideal for office settings. The Akko Fairy stands out for its refined lubrication and medium weight, striking a balance between resistance and comfort, making it suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro is known for its affordability and smooth keystrokes that produce a satisfying "thock" sound. While the Akko Fairy is categorized as polished, muted, mild, neutral, and subtle, the Gateron Milky Red Pro is described as buttery, bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. Each switch has its unique qualities that cater to different preferences and 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are both made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
However, while both switches share the same nylon material for their top and bottom housings, the way in which these components affect the overall typing experience may vary slightly. The qualities of the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This distinction may lead to subtle differences in typing feel and sound between the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), despite their shared housing material.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be the same, but the way in which these materials interact with the switches can result in slightly different typing experiences. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the nylon housing, making them suitable choices for those seeking a quieter typing experience. Whether the slight differences in housing design have a noticeable impact on overall typing feel will ultimately depend on personal preference and sensitivity to such nuances.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Fairy requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Fairy requires 60 grams, while the Milky Red Pro only needs 52 grams, making it lighter in this aspect. Both switches fall under the category of medium to medium-light forces, providing a comfortable typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may enjoy the Gateron Milky Red Pro, as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out. On the other hand, users who prefer a slightly heavier feel may lean towards the Akko Fairy for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with weight playing a crucial role in the decision-making process.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is clear that the Fairy has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Milky Red Pro's travel distance of 4 mm. The Fairy switch with its 3.3 mm travel distance may be preferred by those looking for a quicker response time, especially gamers who value faster keystrokes. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switch with its slightly longer 4 mm travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile and pronounced key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Fairy has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Fairy for $3.10.
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 Fairy linear switch is known for its muted and neutral characteristics, creating a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for office settings. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer auditory feedback during key presses. While the Fairy switch aims for a more subdued typing noise, the Milky Red Pro offers a more pronounced and satisfying sound, suitable for those who enjoy a bit more acoustical feedback while typing.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and reduced friction for comfortable extended use. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switch is known for its buttery feel, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation that is uniform and smooth throughout. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Fairy switch leaning towards a more polished and refined feel, while the Milky Red Pro excels in delivering a consistent and buttery typing experience.
Overall, when comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Fairy switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter and more neutral typing experience, perfect for office settings and extended use. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switch appeals to users who enjoy a richer and more pronounced sound with a buttery-smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and comfort, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users depending on their individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a switch that is factory-lubricated for a smooth typing experience, with a medium weight that strikes a balance between resistance and comfort, the Akko Fairy switch is the ideal choice for office settings and extended daily use. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth and buttery keystroke experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is the ultimate choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a muted and polished typing experience with the Fairy switch, or a bassy and buttery typing feel with the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing needs to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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