Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Penguin are two options that cater to different preferences and needs. The Milky Red Pro is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and low-pitched "thock" sound, making it a popular choice for those seeking a buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin is a tactile switch designed for a silent typing experience, making it ideal for office settings where noise reduction is key. While the Milky Red Pro offers a satisfying smoothness and affordability, the Penguin provides a balanced tactile feedback and quiet operation. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Penguin both feature nylon top and bottom housings, making them quite similar in terms of housing materials. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer plastic of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. When comparing the two, the typing experience on both switches is likely to be very similar, with a duller and rounder sound as a result of the nylon material used in their construction.
Despite the similarities in housing materials between the two switches, there may be subtle differences in the typing experience based on the design of the housings. The qualities of the bottom housing, which has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, may vary slightly between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Penguin. Additionally, the top housing's impact on the sound when a key is released could also differ slightly between the two switches, even though they are made from the same material.
Overall, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Penguin offer a similar typing experience due to their shared nylon housing materials. This means that users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile from both switches, with the nylon material creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Whether you choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Akko Penguin, you can be confident in the quality of the typing experience provided by the nylon housing materials used in their construction.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Milky Red Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the Akko Penguin has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, giving it a medium weight. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milky Red Pro, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Akko Penguin due to its heavier bottom out force. Regardless, both switches offer a relatively similar actuation force, ensuring that users will get comparable results in terms of key responsiveness. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer compared to the Akko Penguin tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Milky Red Pro is more traditional, offering a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Penguin's 3.3 mm travel distance is shallower, providing a quicker response time, which gamers may prefer. Both options offer their own advantages based on personal preferences. If you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Akko Penguin tactile switch may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a bit more depth in your key presses, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer reliable performance, and you can expect similar results with either option depending on your individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch produces a deep, bassy "thock" sound during key presses, offering a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is designed for a quieter typing environment, featuring a muted and neutral sound profile that minimizes noise. While the Milky Red Pro provides a more pronounced and rich sound, the Penguin offers a subtle and gentle typing sound suitable for shared spaces or quiet work environments.
In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro is known for its buttery smooth keystrokes, providing an effortless and uniform typing sensation. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switch is polished and offers a smooth and refined typing experience, thanks to factory lubing or high-quality materials. Additionally, the Penguin switch provides a mild and feathery typing feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. Both switches offer a comfortable and approachable typing experience, but the Milky Red Pro leans towards a more seamless and fluid typing sensation, while the Penguin provides a more refined and polished feel.
Considering all aspects, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milky Red Pro excels in providing a deep and bassy sound with a buttery smooth typing experience, the Akko Penguin prioritizes a muted sound profile and a refined, polished feel for quieter working environments. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing needs, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their specific requirements for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, you should consider the following factors. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with smooth keystrokes and a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent tactile experience with a rounded tactile bump and medium weight for prolonged typing sessions, the Akko Penguin switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing environment. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs.
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