Aflion Iceberg vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are often brought into the spotlight. The Aflion Iceberg, a linear switch, is a prime example of the high-quality switches produced by the relatively new switch manufacturer, Aflion. These Iceberg switches are revered for their satisfying smoothness and unique two-stage spring design, providing users with a fulfilling typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches are well-known for their affordability and smooth keystrokes, offering a buttery smooth feel and a low-pitched "thock" sound. Both switches have their own set of qualities that make them a desirable choice for mechanical keyboard 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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 two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Iceberg and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), one key difference is the material used in the top housing. The Iceberg utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. While both provide unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Iceberg is more likely to showcase RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic element to the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Iceberg and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) use nylon for this component. This material's softness and sound-absorbing qualities contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a dull and round sound upon bottoming out the switch. The similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, regardless of which switch they choose. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the typing experience may be more pronounced due to its role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
When considering how the housing materials interact with the typing experience, it becomes clear that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in the sound and feel of the switch. The split between the qualities of the housing materials means that the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. While the Iceberg's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, demonstrating the unique characteristics brought by different housing materials to the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the Iceberg has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Milky Red Pro has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 52 grams. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Iceberg offers a lighter touch for those who prefer less resistance, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a bit more resistance, catering to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Iceberg being lighter and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) being slightly heavier in comparison.
Travel distance
The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the key travel a distance of 4mm from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth typing experience due to their identical travel distance. As a result, using either switch will provide similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Iceberg has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iceberg for $3.07.
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 Aflion Iceberg linear switch is known for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, offering a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is renowned for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. While the Iceberg switch delivers a more percussive and bright sound, the Milky Red Pro offers a smoother and more satisfying typing experience with its buttery and thocky sound characteristics. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle, offering a responsive typing experience with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue. The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its buttery and smooth keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Both switches aim to optimize typing comfort and performance, catering to different preferences in terms of typing feel. By considering factors such as actuation force and key travel distance, users can choose the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences.
In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Iceberg switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a snappy and light typing feel, the Milky Red Pro delivers a buttery and thocky sound experience paired with a smooth and effortless keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing experience, and overall typing satisfaction. By understanding the characteristics of each switch and considering personal preferences, users can make an informed decision to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch that offers a satisfying smoothness and fulfilling feel, the Iceberg may be the better option for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a snappier or feathery typing experience, the Iceberg could be a great fit. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a switch known for its smooth keystrokes and pleasing "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be more suited to your preferences. Moreover, if you appreciate a buttery typing sensation, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) might be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific feel and sound profile you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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