Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko V3 Silver Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both options offer unique benefits catered towards different needs. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is known for its smooth and affordable typing experience, with buttery smooth keystrokes that produce a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is specifically engineered for gamers, featuring easy-to-press keys, a creamy feel, and a satisfying bassy sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, we can see clear differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Milky Red Pro's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper and crisper sound profile, attributed to its stiffer plastic composition. These contrasting qualities can greatly impact the overall typing experience and the auditory feedback received while using the switches.
On the bottom housing front, both the Milky Red Pro and the V3 Silver Pro feature nylon materials. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. Despite the difference in top housing materials, this similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, making them suitable choices for users looking for a specific auditory feedback while typing.
It is important to note that the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing material plays a major role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Silver Pro can greatly affect the sound profile and tactile feedback experienced while typing on these switches. Both switches offer unique qualities in their housing materials that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it's evident that the V3 Silver Pro is lighter in both aspects. The Milky Red Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the V3 Silver Pro would be the better option. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push may find the Milky Red Pro more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on 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 longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Milky Red Pro is more traditional, offering a deeper press feel, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial key press experience. On the other hand, the 3.3 mm travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro is shallower, providing a quicker response time that may be favored by gamers looking for faster input speed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is characterized by a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is described as having a high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This difference in sound profiles can help cater to different preferences, with the Milky Red Pro offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the V3 Silver Pro delivers a sharper and crisper sound, depending on the user's audio preferences.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is renowned for its buttery smoothness, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is described as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and low-impact typing experience with minimal force required for activation. Both switches aim to reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, with the Milky Red Pro emphasizing a buttery feel and the V3 Silver Pro focusing on a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
Considering the sound and feel qualities of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches, it is evident that they offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. While the Milky Red Pro excels in delivering a bassy and buttery smooth sound and feel, the V3 Silver Pro prioritizes a high-pitched sound and a light actuation force for quicker keystrokes, making it ideal for gaming scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, ensuring that users can select the switch that best suits their needs and preferences to enhance their overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering which switch to choose between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, you should opt for the Milky Red Pro if you value a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for a switch with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for faster keystrokes, the Akko V3 Silver Pro would be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for key feel and sound, as well as your specific typing or gaming needs.
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