Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Windy Shadow both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro is hailed for its smoothness, low "thocky" sound, and thick resistance, making it ideal for both gaming and typing purposes. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow from Aflion is celebrated for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from its extended spring, providing a comfortable medium-light typing experience. While both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different users, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Windy Shadow, one noticeable difference is in their top housings. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to polycarbonate's stiffer composition. This contrast in sound profiles between the two switches showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
When examining the bottom housings of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Windy Shadow, a similarity arises as both switches incorporate nylon for this component. This shared materiality results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, emphasizing the impact of nylon's softer plastic composition in creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite their differences in top housing material, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches highlights a preference for the sound qualities that nylon brings to the typing experience, showcasing its popularity as a classic switch housing material.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Aflion Windy Shadow highlight the importance of considering the impact of different plastics on sound profiles in mechanical keyboards. The contrasting use of nylon in the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and polycarbonate in the Windy Shadow demonstrates how variations in housing materials can lead to distinct typing experiences. While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housings, the choice of polycarbonate for the Windy Shadow's top housing showcases a preference for a sharper and clearer sound profile. Ultimately, the choice of housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that they offer different weight options. The Milky Yellow Pro has a relatively lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Windy Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Milky Yellow Pro is slightly heavier at 62 grams, while the Windy Shadow has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Windy Shadow provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Windy Shadow may be the preferable choice. On the other hand, if someone prefers a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance, they may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro. Both switches offer a medium to medium-light feel, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Windy Shadow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Milky Yellow Pro. A shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for some users. Both switches offer different experiences when it comes to keypress feel and response time, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference. Ultimately, the Milky Yellow Pro and Windy Shadow provide distinct options for users seeking different travel distances in their linear switches.
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 Aflion Windy 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 Windy 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a bassy and low-pitched profile with a thocky sound upon actuation and release. This provides a deep and rich auditory experience that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch delivers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more moderate and versatile auditory experience suitable for various settings. When it comes to feel, the Milky Yellow Pro switch is praised for its buttery and textured keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. In comparison, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch offers a mild typing experience, which is gentle and approachable to most users.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro and Aflion Windy Shadow switches each have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a switch with a deeper and richer sound profile and a buttery feel, the Milky Yellow Pro is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more neutral sound and a mild typing experience, the Aflion Windy Shadow is worth considering. Ultimately, both switches offer excellent performance and can provide a satisfying typing experience based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should weigh your priorities. If you value a classic budget switch with smoothness, a low-pitched "thocky" sound, and a medium bottom-out force for versatile usage in gaming and typing, then the Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from an extended spring, combined with a lower bottom-out force for a gentler typing experience, then the Windy Shadow might better suit your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific needs and preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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