Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Penguin offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch known for its smooth and buttery feel, perfect for both gaming and typing activities. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin stands out as a tactile switch that provides a quiet and satisfying feedback with each press, making it an excellent choice for office environments. While the Milky Yellow Pro excels in versatility and budget-friendly option, the Penguin offers a balance between responsiveness and noise minimization. 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Penguin both feature nylon top and bottom housing materials, resulting in a similar typing experience. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deep and full sound profile due to the softness of the plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound that is appreciated by many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, the quality of the typing experience may be influenced by the specific design and construction of each switch. The way the housing is molded and assembled can affect factors such as key feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience. It is worth noting that small differences in the design of the housing can lead to subtle variations in sound and feel between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Penguin.
Overall, the nylon housing material of both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Penguin contributes to a satisfying typing experience with its deep and full sound profile. While there may be differences in the specifics of each switch's construction, the nylon material ensures that both switches offer a similar level of performance and sound quality. Whether you choose the Milky Yellow Pro or the Penguin, you can expect a tactile and enjoyable typing experience thanks to the nylon housing material used in these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we see some differences. The Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Penguin's 43 grams, making the Penguin the lighter option. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Milky Yellow Pro at 62 grams and the Penguin at 60 grams. This means that while the actuation force may be lighter on the Penguin, the bottom out force is nearly the same as the Milky Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of how much force one prefers when typing.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) falls into the more traditional range of travel distances at 4 mm, providing a balanced amount of depth. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin's shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm caters more towards individuals seeking a quicker and more responsive typing experience, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance - whether one prefers a shorter, snappier feel or a slightly longer, more deliberate keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin 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 Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched characteristics, producing a deep and rich sound that is often described as thocky. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, minimizing noise and providing a moderate sound suitable for various environments. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Milky Yellow Pro being more bass-heavy and satisfyingly deep, while the Penguin provides a softer and quieter typing experience.
Moving on to the feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is renowned for its buttery and textured keystrokes, offering a smooth and fluid typing sensation with noticeable friction that some users may prefer. In contrast, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is polished and mild, providing a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Penguin switch is feathery and subtle, offering light actuation force and gentle resistance for comfortable extended typing sessions. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that caters to different preferences, with the Milky Yellow Pro providing a buttery and textured feel, while the Penguin offers a polished and mild typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and environments. The Milky Yellow Pro excels in providing a deep, bassy sound and a buttery, textured typing experience, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin offers a muted and neutral sound profile along with a polished and mild feel, making it an excellent choice for office environments where noise minimization is key. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and the intended use case.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, you should consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience that is versatile for both gaming and typing, then the Milky Yellow Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you work in a quiet environment and prefer a silent tactile switch with a rounded bump for a satisfying feedback, the Akko Penguin would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize performance and versatility (Milky Yellow Pro) or noise reduction and tactile feedback (Akko Penguin). Consider these factors and choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences and requirements.
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