Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Milky Red Pro is a linear switch known for its smooth and affordable typing experience, with a buttery smoothness and low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow is a tactile switch by Aflion, offering a pronounced tactile bump and a balanced 63.5g bottom-out weight for a satisfying feel. While the Milky Red Pro provides a budget-friendly option with a smooth keystroke, the Thunder Shadow offers a more tactile typing experience with a neutral sound signature. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, one can see a clear difference in their top housings. While the Milky Red Pro features a nylon top housing that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Thunder Shadow boasts a polycarbonate top housing that offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. These differences in material lead to distinct typing experiences, with the nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro absorbing more sound for a duller sound profile compared to the more resonant sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Thunder Shadow. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate material in the Thunder Shadow allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a visual appeal to the switch.
Interestingly, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The softer nature of nylon plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that is consistent across both switches. This similarity in bottom housing material provides a common typing experience in terms of sound profile between the two switches, showcasing the reliable performance of nylon in creating a satisfying typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in impacting the typing experience, it's worth noting that having different housing materials for the top and bottom can split the qualities each material brings to the switch. In the case of the Gateron Milky Red Pro and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, the differences in their top housing materials contribute to contrasting sound profiles when pressing down on and letting go of keys. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a stronger influence on the sound when releasing a key. These nuances in housing materials highlight the importance of material selection in creating a unique typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is clear that the Milky Red Pro is lighter overall. 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 Thunder Shadow has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, although its actuation force is not specified. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Milky Red Pro would be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Thunder Shadow. In both cases, the actuation force plays a crucial role in determining the typing sensation, with the Milky Red Pro being lighter and the Thunder Shadow being heavier.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Milky Red Pro will provide a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Thunder Shadow. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Thunder Shadow, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Milky Red Pro. Both switches offer their own unique feel and it ultimately comes down to personal preference on which travel distance suits your needs best.
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 Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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 offers a bassy and low-pitched "thock" sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch boasts a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches deliver different sound profiles, with the Milky Red Pro presenting a deeper and richer tone, while the Thunder Shadow offers a more balanced and versatile sound.
In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is known for its buttery smooth keystrokes, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience. Conversely, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch offers an invigorating tactile feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive typing sensation. While the Milky Red Pro emphasizes smoothness and uniformity, the Thunder Shadow focuses on providing a tactile and engaging typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a deeper and richer sound profile and a smooth typing experience, the Milky Red Pro would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you seek a switch with a more balanced sound and an invigorating tactile feedback, the Thunder Shadow would suit your preferences. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, allowing users to find the perfect match for their typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, buttery keystroke with a low-pitched sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a pronounced tactile bump, and a neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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