Everglide Crystal Violet vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Everglide Crystal Violet, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), a linear switch. The Crystal Violet switches are designed for those looking for a light operating force of 45g, providing a relaxed and tactile typing experience with a gentle and comfortable feel. They offer a mellow sound profile leaning towards the lower-pitched spectrum, thanks to the unique use of ABS in their housings. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switches are budget-friendly linear switches known for their smooth keystrokes and pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Crystal Violet switches are described as 'creamy', 'low-pitched', and 'mild', the Milky Red Pro switches are labeled as 'buttery', 'bassy', and 'thocky'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, making them ideal choices for different typing experiences. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
POM
Top housing material
ABS
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), we can see that they both have unique characteristics. The Crystal Violet features an ABS top housing, a relatively rare material for switch housings, which results in a low-pitched sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, which is a classic material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound absorption qualities.
The differences continue when we look at the bottom housings of these switches. The Crystal Violet's ABS bottom housing offers a similar low-pitched sound profile as the top housing, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than ABS, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings.
When considering how the top and bottom housings of a switch impact the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of each material will be divided between the two components. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether using ABS or nylon housing materials, understanding the differences in sound profiles and tactile feedback can help in choosing the right switch for individual preferences.
Weight
Both the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them light in terms of initial keystroke activation. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Crystal Violet requires 55 grams of force compared to the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams. This means that the Crystal Violet is slightly heavier in terms of the force needed to fully press the key.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for extended use without fatigue, both switches offer a comparable actuation force. However, for those who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback in their keystrokes, the Crystal Violet may be a better choice due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get consistent feedback and typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. Whether you prefer a tactile or linear switch, both the Crystal Violet and Milky Red Pro offer a standard travel distance that is neither shorter nor longer than the other. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a mellow and non-intrusive auditory experience due to the special use of ABS in its housings. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is characterized by a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. While both switches offer pleasing sound profiles, the Crystal Violet leans towards a softer and more relaxed tone, while the Milky Red Pro delivers a satisfying and rich sound with each keystroke. When choosing between the two based on sound preference, it ultimately comes down to personal taste and the overall sound profile you prefer in your typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is described as creamy, mild, and stepped, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a gentle and comfortable feel. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed and stepped tactile typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Crystal Violet emphasizing a creamy and stepped sensation, while the Milky Red Pro delivers a uniform and effortless typing feel. When choosing between the two based on feel preference, consider whether you prefer a more stepped and creamy typing experience or a smooth and buttery feel with your keystrokes.
Overall, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal Violet provides a mellow and gentle sound with a creamy and stepped typing experience, while the Milky Red Pro offers a rich and deep sound with a buttery and smooth keystroke feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. If you enjoy a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a creamy and mild typing feel, the Everglide Crystal Violet switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassy and thocky sound with a buttery and seamless typing sensation, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to individual preference and the specific typing experience you seek in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following guidelines: Choose the Crystal Violet if you prefer a gentle and comfortable tactile typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, and a creamy and mild feel. These switches are ideal for those seeking a relaxed and stepped typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) if you desire a smooth and budget-friendly linear typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams, a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, and a buttery feel. These switches offer a buttery smoothness and a pleasing "thock" sound during key presses. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.