Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) stand out as popular options in their respective categories. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch that offers a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts looking for a bouncy and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is a linear switch known for its smoothness, buttery feel, and low, thocky sound, making it versatile for both gaming and typing purposes. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is accented and polished, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is characterized by its textured and buttery 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
1.90 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, while the Milky Yellow Pro utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile in switches, making it ideal for those who prefer a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that may appeal to those who enjoy a more muted typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches provide a unique sound and feel due to their housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro stands out with its translucent polycarbonate top housing, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through and create a visually striking effect. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a more traditional solid-colored nylon housing that may appeal to those who prefer a simpler and understated look. While the materials used for the housing may differ between the two switches, both offer a level of customization and personalization through their design elements.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics. Those who prefer a sharper, crisper typing experience may opt for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro with its polycarbonate top housing, while individuals who appreciate a deeper and fuller sound profile may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro with its nylon housing. Regardless of the housing material, both switches provide a unique typing experience that can be tailored to suit individual preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro linear switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means the V3 Lavender Purple Pro will feel slightly easier to press down before registering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a force of 55 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro has a force of 62 grams, making the Gateron switch heavier in this aspect. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their actuation and bottom out forces, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro being lighter overall and the Milky Yellow Pro offering a bit more resistance. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier typing feel is desired.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we can see that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly longer distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Milky Yellow Pro being more on the standard side. Gamers may prefer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for its shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer a different feel when pressed, with one providing a slightly shorter travel distance and the other a slightly longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches offer a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, contributing to a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches are described as having a low, "thocky" sound with a satisfyingly thick resistance, making them suitable for both gaming and typing. While the Lavender Purple Pro switches provide a higher-pitched sound, the Milky Yellow Pro switches produce a deeper and richer bass-heavy sound, catering to different preferences in terms of auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches are characterized by an accented tactile feedback, providing a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. They also offer a bouncy and snappy typing sensation with a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches are described as buttery and textured, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with noticeable friction when pressed. The Milky Yellow Pro switches excel in providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation, while the Lavender Purple Pro switches focus on a balanced tactile feel and responsiveness.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. While the Lavender Purple Pro switches provide a higher-pitched sound and accented tactile feedback, the Milky Yellow Pro switches offer a low, "thocky" sound and buttery, textured feel. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience, with the choice between the two ultimately coming down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a delightful typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smooth and buttery linear switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) could be the perfect choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels and sounds best to you, so take the time to test out both switches and see which one suits your preferences and typing style.
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