Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and Akko Rosewood are two contenders that offer distinct yet favorable experiences for users. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is celebrated as a classic budget switch, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that is marked by its low thocky sound and an appealingly thick resistance, making it a versatile option for both gaming and typing. Its characteristics, such as being bassy and textured, allow for a satisfying feedback that many budget enthusiasts find irresistible. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switch boasts a similarly enjoyable linear feel, highlighted by a deep thocky sound that emerges from a thoughtfully lubricated factory finish. This switch not only appeals to those who appreciate acoustics in their keystrokes but also offers a premium feel at a potentially affordable price. Both switches deliver excellent performance, yet their unique sound profiles and tactile feedback can influence user preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Rosewood both feature nylon for their top and bottom housings, which leads to a similar typing experience. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material due to its unique acoustic properties. Both switches' nylon housings elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile owing to the plastic's softer characteristics, which help in absorbing sound. This shared materiality suggests that users can expect a duller and rounder sound when typing on either the Gateron or Akko switches, highlighting the effective sound-dampening properties of nylon.
While the top and bottom housing of both switches utilize the same nylon material, the impact of each component on the overall typing experience is significant. The bottom housing, which bears more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, contributes to the tactile experience when pressed. Since both switches share identical nylon characteristics, the bottom-out sound is likely to be very similar. Conversely, the top housing is more prominent in shaping the sound produced when the key is released, and since both also utilize nylon, the release sound will reflect similar tonal qualities. This means that both switches provide a coherent sound profile, despite any subtle design differences that may exist.
Ultimately, although the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro and the Akko Rosewood switches may differ in other external aspects—such as design or branding—their shared nylon housing components lead to closely aligned auditory and tactile experiences. Whether typing away on a Gateron switch or an Akko switch, users can anticipate comparable outcomes in terms of sound quality and feel, thanks to the inherent properties of nylon. This cohesiveness makes both switches appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a full-bodied auditory profile and a comfortable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, the differences in weight become evident. The Milky Yellow Pro requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams, compared to the Rosewood's lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or intense gaming marathons will likely gravitate towards the Akko Rosewood switch. In terms of bottom out forces, the Milky Yellow Pro again has the heavier feel with a force of 62 grams, whereas the Rosewood bottoms out at 50 grams. Thus, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro presents a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the Akko Rosewood is better suited for those seeking a more effortless keystroke. Overall, if you favor a lighter switch for comfort, the Akko Rosewood is the clear choice.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Rosewood linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning users can expect a similar feel when pressing down on keys featuring either switch. This equal travel distance indicates that both switches will deliver comparable responsiveness and keypress depth, making them ideal for those who enjoy a consistent experience in their typing or gaming activities. Whether you prefer the Milky Yellow Pro or the Rosewood, you'll achieve the same performance in terms of travel distance.
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 Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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 Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a delightful auditory experience characterized as “thocky,” producing a deep and rich sound profile with its low-pitched and bassy qualities. This creates a satisfying and resonant keypress that many find appealing, especially during long typing sessions or high-stakes gaming. In contrast, information on the sound profile of the Akko Rosewood linear switch is currently unknown, leaving a gap in the auditory comparison. However, factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps can heavily influence sound perception for both switches.
In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is regarded as buttery and smooth, providing users with a seamless keystroke experience that enhances both typing and gaming. The tactile sensation is fluid and cohesive, making it comfortable for extended use. Yet again, details regarding the feel of the Akko Rosewood switch are not available, meaning we can't draw direct comparisons in this area. This missing information leaves potential users uncertain about what to expect from that particular switch’s tactile response.
Overall, if you're considering the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), you're looking at an excellent all-around linear switch known for its satisfying sound and comfortable feel. While the Akko Rosewood may offer its own unique qualities, those specifics remain unknown, leaving the Milky Yellow Pro as a compelling option for enthusiasts on a budget who appreciate a blend of auditory richness and a smooth typing experience. If seeking a switch, leaning towards known qualities like those of the Milky Yellow Pro guarantees a fulfilling experience, while potential users of the Rosewood may need to explore further or rely on community feedback for insights.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Akko Rosewood linear switch comes down to your personal preferences and intended uses. If you find yourself gaming often or require a versatile all-rounder switch for various typing tasks, the Milky Yellow Pro is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams offers a gratifying resistance that balances comfort and feedback, while its buttery smooth keystrokes and deep, thocky sound profile enhance the overall experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a total bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the Rosewood switch might be better suited for you. Its factory-lubricated design produces an appealing thocky sound and allows for a more effortless typing experience, ideal for prolonged typing sessions or if you simply enjoy lighter switches. Ultimately, evaluate how you prioritize sound, feel, and resistance when deciding which switch aligns with your specific preferences and habits.
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