Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, you are presented with two distinct typing experiences. The Milky Red Pro is lauded for its smooth and affordable typing experience, offering a buttery smoothness coupled with a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Shadow Single Spring provides a medium level of tactility with a bouncy feel and a deep, thocky sound profile. While the Milky Red Pro excels in providing a smooth and bassy typing experience, the Shadow Single Spring offers a more approachable level of tactility and a unique sound profile. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, we see a clear distinction in the type of plastic used. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Shadow Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials have their unique sound characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound aesthetics.
The difference in housing materials also plays a role in the overall feel of the switch. With the nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro, users can experience a softer bottom-out sound and feel, creating a more rounded typing experience. In contrast, the use of polycarbonate in the Shadow Single Spring leads to a more clear and resonant bottom-out sound, providing a different tactile feedback. The top housing material further influences the sound when releasing a key, with nylon contributing to a duller sound and polycarbonate producing a crisper sound. These distinctions highlight how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer high-quality switches that cater to varying preferences. Whether you prefer the softer, more absorbent sound of nylon or the sharper, clearer sound of polycarbonate, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials depends on individual preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback, with each material offering a unique typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch both fall within the medium-light range. The Milky Red Pro has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow's 48 grams, but their bottom out forces are very similar at 52 grams and 55 grams, respectively. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Milky Red Pro may be the better option, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. However, if you enjoy a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the Shadow may be more suitable due to its slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, allowing users to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel. The tactile feedback provided by the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch may give a slightly different sensation compared to the smooth linear feel of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch. Overall, both switches offer a consistent and satisfying keystroke experience with equal travel distances.
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) Single 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) Single 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its deep and rich bass tones, offering a low-pitched "thock" sound that is satisfying to the ears. In comparison, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as having a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a similar immersive auditory experience during key presses. Both switches offer a pleasing sound profile that enhances the typing experience, with the Milky Red Pro leaning towards a bass-heavy richness and the Shadow Single Spring providing a satisfying thocky tone.
In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is celebrated for its buttery smooth keystrokes, delivering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that enhances the typing experience with a lively rebound when keys are pressed. While the Milky Red Pro excels in providing a smooth and uniform typing experience, the Shadow Single Spring offers a unique bouncy feel that can cater to users seeking a more tactile typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Red Pro provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a bass-heavy sound profile, while the Shadow Single Spring delivers a bouncy feel with a deep and thocky sound profile. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience that caters to different user preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth typing experience with bass tones or a bouncy tactile feel with a thocky sound profile.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a smooth and affordable typing experience with a buttery keystroke feel and a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, a lower actuation force, and a deep thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the specific sound and feel characteristics that best match your typing style and preferences.
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