Kailh Box White vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) stand out as popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Box White is a clicky switch that offers maximum audio feedback, with a crunchy feeling and high-pitched sound that mimics stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro is a linear switch known for its smooth and affordable typing experience, providing buttery smooth keystrokes and a low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Box White excels in providing a tactile and audible typing experience, the Milky Red Pro focuses on delivering a smooth and budget-friendly option. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Kailh Box White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) lies in their housing materials. The Box White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. This contrast in materials highlights the impact that housing can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the deeper and fuller sound profile that nylon provides. This similarity in material for the bottom housing suggests that the typing experience on these switches may have some common characteristics, particularly in terms of sound. However, the difference in top housing material between the Box White and Milky Red Pro (KS-3) likely results in distinct sound profiles when typing on these switches. The combination of different housing materials in each switch allows for a unique typing experience based on the specific qualities of each material.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box White offers a clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a deeper and rounder sound. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a fuller, deeper sound may guide your decision between these two switches. However, both switches ultimately deliver a high-quality typing experience due to the use of premium housing materials.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have varying actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In comparison, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. Some may prefer the Box White for its slightly heavier feel, which can provide a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a balance between actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with satisfactory typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch's 4 mm travel distance. The Box White offers a slightly shallower press, making it a preferred choice for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch provides a bit more depth to the key press, which can be more satisfying for users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance and the feel of the switch.
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 Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a resonant and high-pitched typing experience, akin to the sound of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch produces a bassy, thocky sound that is low-pitched and pleasing to the ears. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, with the Box White being more sharp and crisp, while the Milky Red Pro offers a deeper, richer tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch offers a buttery feel, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform keystroke sensation. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, but the Box White focuses on a sleek finish, while the Milky Red Pro emphasizes a fluid and smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch excels in providing a vivid auditory experience with its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, paired with a polished and refined typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a deep, bassy thock sound and a buttery smooth keystroke feel that prioritizes a comfortable typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharp click of the Box White or the smooth thock of the Milky Red Pro, both switches deliver quality performance tailored to different preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for maximum audio feedback and a tactile typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be a great choice for you. The "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and accented tactility make for a unique typing experience that is both satisfying and immersive. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more budget-friendly typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the way to go. With its buttery smooth keystrokes and seamless typing sensation, you can enjoy a satisfying and quiet typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
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