Huano Elf vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf 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 Huano Elf and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) each offer unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Huano Elf switches are distinguished by their POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and produces a deep sound signature, combined with a medium-light actuation that many users find satisfying for both typing and gaming. This makes them an excellent choice for those who enjoy a tactile sensation without a heavy feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switches are celebrated for their exceptionally smooth keystrokes, providing a buttery typing experience complemented by a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound. Perfect for users seeking a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on performance, the Milky Red Pro switches excel in delivering a delightful auditory feedback. Both switches appeal to different preferences—whether you prioritize the acoustics and feel of the Huano Elf or the smoothness and affordability of the Gateron Milky Red Pro. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Huano Elf and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilize distinct materials for their top housing, which results in different tactile experiences despite their common nylon bottom housing. The Huano Elf features a POK (polyketone) top housing, known for its smooth operation and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, it allows for effortless key presses while providing a robust construction that outlasts many other materials, including POM and Nylon. This contributes to a sound profile that is both clacky and punchy, especially when keys are released. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro opts for a nylon top housing, which is softer and offers a sound profile that is deeper and more muted. The absorption characteristics of nylon lead to a rounder sound upon key release, positioning the Milky Red Pro as a switch that prioritizes sound dampening over sharpness.
Despite their differing top housing materials, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes similarly to the overall acoustic and tactile profile. With nylon being a softer plastic, both switches create a fuller sound when pressed down, enhancing the typing experience by providing a satisfying thock rather than a clicky sound. This shared bottom housing material means that regardless of the top housing differences, users of both the Huano Elf and the Gateron Milky Red Pro will enjoy a uniform sound and feel when bottoming out. The impact of the bottom housing is crucial in this context, as it reinforces the tactile feedback that typists cherish.
The contrasting top materials of the Huano Elf and the Gateron Milky Red Pro highlight how different characteristics can dictate the overall typing experience. While the Elf’s POK material accentuates smooth and clacky nuances, the Milky Red Pro's nylon top softens the sound profile and cushioning. These variations suggest that when typing on either switch, the top housing significantly influences the sound on release, while the bottom housing is responsible for the feedback upon activation. Thus, both switches may offer unique advantages, allowing enthusiasts to choose based on their preference for sound crispness versus sound dampening characteristics. Ultimately, this comparison underlines how material selection in switch design impacts user experience while showcasing similarities in bottom housing performance.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Huano Elf requires an actuation force of 42 grams, making it lighter than the Gateron Milky Red Pro, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This difference in actuation force suggests that typists who prefer a lighter switch might gravitate towards the Elf for longer typing sessions. However, the Elf lacks a specified bottom out force, making a direct comparison in this respect difficult. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro has a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorized as medium-light, implying that it offers a more substantial tactile feedback when fully pressed down. This heavier bottom out force provides a different typing experience, appealing to those who favor a stronger push feel. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter option, the Huano Elf is the clear choice; however, for those who appreciate a more pronounced resistance at the bottom of the keystroke, the Gateron Milky Red Pro may be preferable.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it's clear that the Elf has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Red Pro features a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference provides distinct gaming and typing experiences; the Elf may be ideal for gamers seeking quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance, allowing for faster actuation. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro’s longer travel distance may appeal to those who favor a more traditional and substantial keystroke, offering a deeper feel that can enhance typing accuracy and comfort. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more tactile experience in your keyboard interactions.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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 Huano Elf switch produces a distinctive sound, characterized by a deep sound signature that resonates well during typing. This deep acoustic quality can offer a rewarding audio experience when each key is pressed, thanks to the POK top housing designed to enhance acoustics. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) delivers a smooth and low-pitched sound profile that is described as thocky and bassy, producing a satisfying and rich auditory sensation with each keystroke. This results in a low-frequency timbre that is both pleasant and punchy, contributing to the overall enjoyment of typing. Both switches provide a unique auditory experience, although the Elf leans towards a heftier sound while the Milky Red Pro emphasizes a more mellow yet impactful tone.
In terms of feel, the Huano Elf is known for its medium-light resistance, creating a comfortable typing experience that balances effort and ease. This makes it suitable for those who prefer a typing action that is neither too stiff nor overly light, aiming for that perfect middle ground. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) excels in delivering a buttery smooth keystroke experience. This quality allows for seamless and effortless typing, providing a fluid sensation as the keys are pressed, which could be beneficial for long typing sessions or gaming. While the Elf is designed for a more moderate feel, the Milky Red Pro emphasizes a wholly smooth tactile experience.
In summary, both the Huano Elf and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches cater to different preferences, with the Elf focusing on a deep sound and balanced feel, while the Milky Red Pro offers a smooth keystroke and a low-pitched, satisfying auditory experience. If you prioritize sound and enjoy a tactile "thock," the Milky Red Pro may align with your preferences, while the Elf provides a robust acoustic environment with a milder feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal typing style and the sound profile you find most satisfying.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) ultimately depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience you seek. If you appreciate a deeper, thocky sound signature and a medium-light feel, the Elf switch might be the better option for you, especially if you're looking for enhanced acoustics and a satisfying key press without the need for too much force to bottom out. On the other hand, if you favor a smooth and fluid typing experience with a buttery keystroke and a budget-friendly price, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is an excellent choice. It provides that classic low-pitched thock sound that many typists find satisfying. In summary, consider your sound preferences and typing style: go for the Elf if you cherish a richer auditory experience, or the Milky Red Pro if you prioritize a sleek and effortless feel during your typing sessions.
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