Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring are excellent choices to explore. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is a linear switch known for its smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, offering a buttery feel and a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its unique two-staged spring design, resulting in deep and resonating thocks while typing. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a more tactile and responsive feel. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring lies in their housing materials. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. While the nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) absorbs more sound, the polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a clearer and more resonant sound experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) produces a duller and rounder sound, ideal for those seeking a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring delivers a more defined and vibrant sound, perfect for users looking for a crisper typing feedback. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate housing in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the typing experience.
While the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer different housing materials, they both provide high-quality typing experiences tailored to individual preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile with the nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or a sharper and crisper sound profile with the polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, both switches deliver exceptional performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro requires 52 grams, while the Shadow Double Spring needs 63 grams. This means that the Shadow Double Spring is heavier both in actuation and bottom out force compared to the Milky Red Pro. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Milky Red Pro, as it allows for longer periods of typing or gaming without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Shadow Double Spring for its heavier force, providing a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the travel distance between the two switches, it can be said that they offer a similar level of keypress feel and feedback to the user. The shorter travel distance can provide a quicker typing experience and potentially reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, a shorter travel distance can also result in faster response times for gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback and actuation point for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its deep, bassy, and thocky sound profile, evoking a pleasing low-pitched tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch produces a sharp and clacky sound with a higher pitch, characterized by a sharp and crisp noise reminiscent of a percussion instrument. When it comes to feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch offers a smooth and fluid typing experience, described as buttery and uniform. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a sharp and accented tactile feedback, giving a distinct and responsive keypress with a bounce or elastic sensation. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Milky Red Pro focusing on a smooth and bass-heavy sound and feel, while the Shadow Double Spring offers a sharp and tactile experience with a snappy and bouncy feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and typing experience, as both switches are designed to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-bottom out force and are looking for a more tactile typing experience with a sharp, clacky sound, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch might be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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