Outemu Crystal vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal 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, the Outemu Crystal and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both offer fantastic options for enthusiasts looking for a linear typing experience. The Crystal switches provide a unique, elastic feel that is both medium-light in weight and offers a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switches are known for their smooth and budget-friendly experience, with a buttery smoothness and low-pitched "thock" sound. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different preferences. 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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on the switch. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) uses a nylon top and bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound experience.
While both the Crystal and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) feature different housing materials, they both prioritize sound quality in a unique way. The polycarbonate housing of the Crystal enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound profile, while the nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) creates a deeper and fuller sound experience. Despite their differences, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, the Clear housing of the Crystal showcases the polycarbonate material, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through. On the other hand, the opaque nature of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s nylon housing provides a more classic and understated look. Both switches offer distinct benefits based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences for sound and visual appeal. Ultimately, whether you choose the Outemu Crystal or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), you can expect a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, both have the same actuation force at 45 grams, making them equally sensitive in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, the Crystal switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams, giving it a slightly firmer feel when fully pressed. Both switches fall into the category of medium-light forces, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. The Crystal switch might be preferred by those looking for a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its marginally heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for the level of force and feel desired during typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect similar results when using either switch, as they both offer the same tactile experience and feel when pressing down on a key. It is worth noting that a shorter travel distance can sometimes result in a faster keystroke, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users. In this case, both switches offer the same travel distance, so the choice between the two will likely come down to personal preference and other factors such as sound, actuation force, and overall typing feel. Ultimately, both switches provide a smooth and consistent keystroke experience for users to enjoy.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its chirpy and high-pitched characteristics, providing a unique typing experience with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is praised for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound, offering a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a low frequency range. Depending on personal preference, the Crystal switch may be preferred for a sharper and crisper sound, while the Milky Red Pro switch may be favored for its deeper and richer tones.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, offering a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switch is known for its buttery feel, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation that enhances overall comfort and typing efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to whether one prefers a polished and refined typing experience or a buttery smooth keystroke feel.
Considering all the available information, it's clear that the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. While the Crystal switch provides a unique linear typing experience with a chirpy sound and a polished feel, the Milky Red Pro switch delivers a smooth and affordable typing experience with a bassy, thocky sound and a buttery feel. Whichever switch is chosen, it's important to consider personal preferences in sound profile, typing feel, and budget constraints to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Outemu Crystal linear switch versus the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a unique, linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, then the Outemu Crystal switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth and budget-friendly option that offers a buttery smooth keystroke with a satisfying "thock" sound, then the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is the better choice for you. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
