Gateron CM vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron CM and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CM stands out for its full nylon housing, providing a richer sound signature and a smooth typing experience thanks to its impeccable factory lube job and lengthened, dual-staged spring. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its affordability and smooth keystrokes, offering a buttery smoothness and low-pitched "thock" sound. While both switches share qualities such as being buttery and bassy, the CM also offers a polished and frictionless feel, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is known for its thocky sound. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housing. This shared material results in a similar typing experience for both switches, as nylon is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This characteristic of nylon creates a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience for users of both switches.
Despite both the Gateron CM and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) using nylon for their housing materials, there may be slight differences in the sound and feel of each switch due to the specific design and construction of their housings. The qualities of the nylon material will be split between the top and bottom housings of each switch, with the bottom housing having more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when a key is released. These subtle variations in the housing design may result in slightly different typing experiences for users of the two switches, even though they share the same housing material.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) play a crucial role in enhancing the typing experience for users. The utilization of nylon for both the top and bottom housings of these switches ensures a consistent sound profile that is deeper and fuller, creating a satisfying typing experience. While there may be slight differences in the specific sound and feel of each switch due to the design of their housings, the shared use of nylon ultimately results in similar results for users in terms of sound quality and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the CM requires 63.5 grams while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) needs 52 grams to bottom out. This means that the CM switch is heavier both in actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Milky Red Pro switch, making it more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switch is lighter in both aspects, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gateron CM has a shorter travel distance compared to the Milky Red Pro. A shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more substantial and tactile feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the slight difference in travel distance may impact the typing experience for some users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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.
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, both the Gateron CM and Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches are described as having a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile. This means that you can expect a deeper and richer sound during key presses, characterized by a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The "thocky" description indicates a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, similar to a deep "thud" or soft "knock." Overall, both switches offer a pleasing auditory experience, with the CM potentially delivering a slightly richer sound due to its nylon housing.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. These descriptors highlight a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The CM switches promise a seamless and effortless typing sensation, evoking a silky and frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience similar to the CM switch. While the specific details of the feel may vary slightly between the two switches, both are known for providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron CM and Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches offer excellent sound and feel qualities for users seeking a linear switch. The CM switches stand out for their bassy sound signature, impeccable factory lube job, and bouncy typing experience, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches are lauded for their smooth and buttery keystrokes, budget-friendly pricing, and low-pitched thocky sound. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience with similar results in terms of sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy typing experience with a deeper and richer sound profile, the Gateron CM switches may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and prioritize a smooth and affordable typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switches could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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