HMX Deep Navy vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), both of which are linear switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Deep Navy stands out for its crisp, rich sound profile and full nylon construction, delivering a silky smoothness with every keystroke that appeals to users who prioritize a refined auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality, boasting a buttery smoothness and a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound that many users find satisfying. While both switches cater to those who prefer linear options, the Deep Navy emphasizes a sharper sound profile and premium build materials, whereas the Milky Red Pro focuses on affordability and a smooth 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Ly
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality means that both switches display similar acoustic characteristics and tactile responses, leading to a satisfying typing experience. The nylon material, known for its softer nature compared to harder plastics, absorbs sound effectively. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is more subdued and rounded than switches made from harder materials. Thus, users of either switch can expect a comparable auditory experience when typing, characterized by a sound that is less sharp and more muted.
Another crucial aspect to consider when assessing the Deep Navy and Milky Red Pro switches is their overall sound profile, which is influenced by both the top and bottom housings' material properties. Since both switches boast nylon housings, the combined effect results in a harmonious typing experience. The bottom housing's design contributes significantly to the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing shapes the sound quality upon releasing a key. With both switches sharing the nylon material, they inherently possess the capacity to develop a rich and pleasing sound signature that enhances tactile satisfaction during use, regardless of the specific models involved.
In conclusion, despite any potential differences in other areas, the similarity in housing materials between the HMX Deep Navy and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) results in similar acoustic properties and tactile feedback. The nylon used in both the top and bottom housings leads to a potent sound absorption ability, creating a consistent typing feedback across the two switches. Users can fully expect that the characteristics brought about by the nylon material will evoke a similarly rich and engaging experience, underscoring the importance of housing materials in the overall performance and enjoyment of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, key differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Deep Navy features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for prolonged typing or extensive gaming sessions due to its ease of pressing. Conversely, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, offering a more substantial typing feel favored by those who prefer a firmer push. Therefore, while the Deep Navy is the lighter option overall, the Milky Red Pro appeals to users seeking more resistance and feedback. As a result, if you value a lighter switch, the Deep Navy would be the preferable option, while for a heavier, more tactile experience, the Milky Red Pro is ideal.
Travel distance
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch exhibit different travel distances, which can influence the typing experience significantly. The Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Deep Navy may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker keystrokes that can enhance gaming performance. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feedback feel, which some users might find more satisfying and suited for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the preference between these two switches comes down to whether one favors a quicker actuation or a deeper keystroke experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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
The Deep Navy switch is known for its rich and sharp sound profile, which is enhanced by its full nylon construction. While the exact qualities of its sound haven't been explicitly defined, one can expect a distinctive acoustic feedback that stands out in a mechanical keyboard setup. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches are celebrated for their deep, low-pitched “thock” sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience with a bassy resonance. When pressed, they produce a thocky character that feels fleshed out and substantial, giving a rewarding auditory response, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound during typing. Although these two switches diverge in their sound profiles, the right keyboard and keycap combination can help users achieve similar acoustic characteristics.
Regarding feel, the Deep Navy switch emphasizes silky smoothness in each keystroke, which contributes to a seamless typing experience that is likely to appeal to those who appreciate a refined tactile sensation. Meanwhile, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is renowned for its buttery smoothness, offering a fluid and effortless keystroke. Both switches imply a distinctly smooth typing experience, although the Deep Navy may have a slight edge in terms of a luxurious feel given its premium materials. Nonetheless, users can expect a similar level of comfort from both options, making either one suitable for prolonged typing sessions.
In summary, both the HMX Deep Navy and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches provide compelling auditory and tactile experiences. The Deep Navy's characterized sound and silky smooth feel offer a high-quality feel, while the Milky Red Pro delivers a budget-friendly yet equally enjoyable typing experience with its rich sound and buttery keystrokes. Ultimately, personal preference will guide users in selecting between these two, as each provides unique qualities that can enhance a mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and application. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers a distinctive sound experience with a rich and sharp auditory profile, the Deep Navy is an excellent choice. Its 45-gram bottom-out force allows for effortless typing, making it ideal for those who spend long hours at the keyboard or enjoy a more responsive key press. Furthermore, the silky smooth Ly stem enhances the overall typing experience, perfect for gamers or writers who appreciate nuanced keystrokes.
On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) caters to those looking for a balance between smoothness and a satisfying sound, with its 52-gram force providing a more substantial feel under your fingers. If you value a deeper, thocky acoustics during typing, paired with a buttery smooth keypress, then the Milky Red Pro is likely to be more to your liking. This switch is also budget-friendly, making it a great option if you're diving into mechanical keyboards for the first time. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths, so consider your priorities—whether it's lighter actuation and sound quality or a satisfying typing experience with a richer, deeper sound as you make your decision.
Mentioned in this article
