Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options, particularly the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Rosewood, both of which are linear switches that promise a distinctive typing experience. The Gateron Milky Red Pro stands out for its buttery smooth keystrokes and pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound, making it an affordable choice for those seeking comfort without compromising on auditory delight. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood is celebrated for its deep and satisfying thocky sound, enhanced by a unique factory-applied lubricant that provides an added layer of richness to each keystroke. While both switches aim to deliver a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, they cater to slightly different preferences in sound profile and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Rosewood switches share identical housing materials, specifically nylon, for both their top and bottom housings. This is significant as nylon is renowned in the keyboard community for its acoustic properties. Both switches deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, attributed to nylon's softer nature compared to harder plastics. Consequently, users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on either switch. The use of nylon in both cases effectively absorbs more sound, leading to the production of a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience with a satisfying auditory feedback.
As both switches have the same construction and material composition, the acoustic quality between the Gateron Milky Red Pro and the Akko Rosewood will produce notably similar performances. The lightweight, softer nylon materials across both switches will lead to a cohesive tactile response and sound signature. Given that the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affects the sound upon key release, users can anticipate that both switches will exhibit a cohesive performance throughout their actuation. This consistency emphasizes the importance of housing materials in defining a switch's overall characteristics.
Despite their shared nylon housing, it is worth noting that other factors such as the design, actuation force, and spring could lead to subtle differences in their overall feel and performance. However, with both switches utilizing the same nylon materials for their housings, users can expect a comparable auditory experience that promotes a rich and pleasant typing sound. This shared material can make a substantial difference in a user's typing experience, providing smoother acoustics and a more satisfying tactile feedback, regardless of whether one is using the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Akko Rosewood.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Milky Red Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Rosewood switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Rosewood lighter overall, appealing to users seeking a more effortless typing experience, especially during long sessions. Meanwhile, the Milky Red Pro provides a slightly heavier feel, which may cater to those who prefer a subtler tactile feedback under their fingers. Overall, while both switches offer a good balance for mixed usage, the Rosewood is slightly easier to press down, while the Milky Red Pro delivers a bit more resistance, offering a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, which means that they provide an identical feel when pressed down. Because their travel distances are the same, users can expect comparable results in terms of key presses and overall typing experience. This similarity in travel distance suggests that both switches are suited for those who enjoy a consistent linear response, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke.
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 Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Rosewood linear switches produce a satisfying auditory experience that is characterized by a low-pitched, thocky resonance. The Milky Red Pro is known for its deep, rich sound profile, offering a bassy and low-pitched “thock” that makes each keystroke feel substantial. On the other hand, the Rosewood switches also deliver a deep thock sounds, enhanced by factory-applied lubricant, creating an equally pleasing acoustic environment. Therefore, users can expect a similar rich auditory experience from both switches, although the distinct characteristics of each switch may vary slightly depending on the keyboard setup and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is celebrated for its buttery smooth keystrokes, which provide a seamless and effortless typing experience. This sensation contributes to a fluid and consistent performance, making typing or gaming enjoyable. Conversely, the feel of the Akko Rosewood linear switch is less defined in available information, leaving some aspects unknown. However, since both switches are categorized as linear, users can generally anticipate a smooth travel without tactile bumps or clicks, providing a similarly pleasant typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Akko Rosewood linear switches share an affinity for deep, thocky sounds, the Milky Red Pro is particularly noted for its buttery feel during keystrokes. Despite the Rosewood's lack of detailed feedback, being a linear switch means it likely retains a smooth actuation similar to that of the Milky Red Pro. Overall, both options can lead to satisfying auditory and tactile experiences, making either a great choice for newcomers seeking quality mechanical switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you lean towards a medium-light switch that offers an exceptionally smooth and buttery typing experience, while also enjoying a low-pitched thock sound that adds character to your keystrokes, the Milky Red Pro is likely the better choice for you. Its slightly higher bottom-out force provides a subtle feedback that can enhance your typing rhythm, making it ideal for long sessions of work or gaming. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the Rosewood may suit you better. Its deep thocky sound, enhanced by factory-applied lubrication, makes for a uniquely rich auditory experience right out of the box, making each keystroke feel satisfying and refined. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths, and your choice should reflect the kind of tactile feedback and sound profile that makes your typing experience enjoyable.
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