Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is praised for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is known for its smoothness and buttery feel, accompanied by a low, "thocky" sound that appeals to budget enthusiasts for its versatility in both gaming and typing. While the Crystal Pro switch may be more bouncy and polished, the Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a bassy and textured typing experience. 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
48g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic material, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic material, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offer similar characteristics to their respective top housings. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile just like the top housing. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile consistent with its top housing. The choice of housing material for both the top and bottom components plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches, ensuring a well-balanced auditory experience.
While the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of polycarbonate and nylon, respectively, the impact of these materials on the sound profile is distinct yet complementary. The polycarbonate housing in the V3 Crystal Pro emphasizes sharpness and clarity in sound, especially suitable for RGB lighting applications, while the nylon housing in the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) creates a deeper and fuller sound profile with a rounder tone. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics, as each housing material offers a unique and distinct typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, both switches have similar actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of force required. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro may be the better option due to its slightly lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Milky Yellow Pro being closest to the standard 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro for faster response times, while those who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal 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 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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.
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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bright and chirpy sound signature, with a unique acoustic quality that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch produces a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, characterized by a deep and rich tone during key presses. The Milky Yellow Pro also features a thocky sound, providing a satisfyingly thick resistance that is favored by budget enthusiasts. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so personal preference plays a significant role in determining the preferred sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a polished and bouncy typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek and lively key press. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch provides a buttery and textured feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with noticeable friction for those who prefer a slightly more tactile sensation. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and feedback.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its chirpy sound and bouncy feel, while the Milky Yellow Pro excels in providing a low-pitched, bassy sound and a buttery typing experience. Both switches have their own merits and can deliver a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a personal keyboard setup would be the best way to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that offers a low-pitched, "thocky" sound and a buttery smooth typing sensation that excels in both gaming and typing, then the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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