Akko Fairy vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Akko Fairy is renowned for its smooth typing experience, thanks to its factory-applied lubrication and medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort. Ideal for office settings, the Fairy switch offers a quieter workspace and is comfortable for extended use, making it suitable for professional tasks. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is a budget-friendly option known for its smoothness and satisfyingly thick resistance. With a low, "thocky" sound and versatility in both gaming and typing, the Milky Yellow Pro is a go-to switch for budget enthusiasts. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Both the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon as their housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. With both switches using the same housing material, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the Akko Fairy or the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
Although both switches share the same nylon housing material, the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may have differences in the design or construction of their housing components. The top housing of a switch is said to have more of an impact on the sound when a key is let go, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Depending on the specific details of the design and construction of the housing components in each switch, there may be differences in the overall typing experience and sound profile between the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience for users. Both switches utilize nylon as their housing material, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. While the top and bottom housings may have different impacts on the sound and feel of the switches, users can expect a comparable typing experience with either the Akko Fairy or the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) due to their shared use of nylon as the housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally responsive in triggering keystrokes. However, the Fairy has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 62 grams, indicating that the Fairy switch may provide a slightly softer and smoother typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch to avoid fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Akko Fairy switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, users looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milky Yellow Pro would be considered the longer option. The shorter travel distance of the Akko Fairy may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro may provide a more substantial keypress feel for those who prefer more depth. Ultimately, your preference for travel distance will depend on your personal typing or gaming style, with both switches offering their own unique advantages.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko Fairy switch is preferred for its muted and neutral characteristics, which produce a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for office settings. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is lauded for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory feedback that appeals to both gamers and typists. The sound produced by both switches will be influenced not only by the switches themselves but also by the keyboard build and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switch is known for its polished, mild, and subtle qualities, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and reduced friction. This makes it a comfortable choice for extended use in shared spaces. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery and textured, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation with noticeable friction for those who prefer a bit of texture in their keystrokes. The tactile experience of both switches will also depend on other factors like keycap material and typing technique.
In conclusion, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and use cases. The Fairy switch is best suited for those looking for a quiet and comfortable typing experience in professional settings, while the Milky Yellow Pro switch is ideal for budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking a versatile switch with a satisfying sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the specific environment and usage you have in mind. If you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience for office tasks, the Akko Fairy switch with its medium weight and factory-applied lubrication would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a versatile switch that excels in both gaming and typing with a satisfyingly thick resistance, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound (muted vs. bassy/thocky), feel (polished/subtle vs. buttery/textured), and the specific demands of your daily use.
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