Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black 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 choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style, and two popular options in the Gateron lineup are the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3), both of which are linear switches but offer distinct experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Black is designed for those who appreciate a heavier typing feel, featuring a 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force that provides a substantial and immersive experience, complemented by a medium-high pitch auditory feedback and vibrant RGB lighting effects due to its frosted light diffuser. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) prioritizes smoothness, delivering buttery keystrokes and a low-pitched "thock" sound that appeals to users seeking a lightweight and whisper-quiet typing experience. Both switches have their merits—choosing the G Pro 3.0 Black may be ideal for those wanting a bit more tactile resistance and pronounced sound, while the Milky Red Pro is perfect for users who prefer a smoother action and a more subdued auditory signature. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it’s evident that the differences in their compositions contribute to distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that is designed to produce a high-pitched and clacky sound, characterized by its pointed audio signature. This could lead to a more dynamic typing experience where each keystroke feels sharp and responsive. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro utilizes a nylon top housing, which is renowned for its classic sound profile, resulting in a deeper and rounder audio feedback. This divergence in materials emphasizes how the top housing significantly influences sound characteristics, with the G Pro 3.0 Black enhancing clarity and brightness, while the Milky Red Pro offers warmth and fullness.
Looking at the bottom housings, there is an interesting contrast as well, albeit with some similarities that may yield comparable results despite the different materials. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing that creates a deeper and muted sound profile. In comparison, the Milky Red Pro's nylon bottom housing also elicits a deeper, fuller sound but is more absorbent due to its softer nature. This commonality means that both switches will exhibit a certain amount of depth and modulation in sound upon bottoming out, suggesting that users may enjoy a similar overall auditory experience, albeit through different auditory nuances that the two plastics bring to the table.
Ultimately, while the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the G Pro 3.0 Black and Milky Red Pro lead to unique sound signatures, they reflect how each component contributes to the overall typist experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black's sharper top and muted bottom are pitted against the Milky Red Pro's rounder tonal qualities, creating a fascinating dichotomy. It is important to note that the pressing action will predominantly highlight the attributes of the bottom housing, meaning users can still enjoy aspects of both designs: the responsive sharpness from the G Pro 3.0 Black and the enveloping warmth from the Milky Red Pro, resulting in a satisfying and engaging typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch differ significantly in their actuation and bottom out forces, providing distinct typing experiences for users. The G Pro 3.0 Black features an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial push feel, which can enhance the typing experience and potentially reduce accidental key presses. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This lighter switch can be advantageous for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less force, thereby reducing finger fatigue. Overall, while both switches serve different preferences and scenarios, the G Pro 3.0 Black is heavier and suited for users who favor a more tactile experience, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is lighter and caters to those seeking ease and comfort.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both exhibit a travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is identical, resulting in a similar tactile experience during usage. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect consistent keypress results, making them equally responsive in feel. Therefore, if you're looking for uniformity in key travel between these two options, you can confidently choose either switch without concern for differences in performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch produces a medium-high pitch that can be described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy auditory feedback when pressed. This crisp and bright tone contrasts sharply with the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch, which features a deeper, richer sound profile characterized by its low-pitched, thocky resonance. The Milky Red Pro delivers a satisfying, bass-heavy sound akin to a soft thud or knock, creating a more mellow acoustic experience. Ultimately, while both switches can produce distinct sounds, users can expect the G Pro 3.0 Black to be more piercing, while the Milky Red Pro offers a comforting depth, influenced by factors such as board and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black stands out with a creamy and silky typing experience, which gives it a sense of smoothness and ease during use. This quality is often due to the lubricant applied in the factory or specific materials used in its construction, providing a sensual gliding sensation. Conversely, the Milky Red Pro is known for its buttery feel—characterized by a seamless and fluid keystroke experience—yet maintains an effortless typing sensation that can be appealing to many users. While the overall tactile feedback is smooth in both switches, the G Pro 3.0 Black may have a substantial and pronounced feel compared to the gentle finesse delivered by the Milky Red Pro.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches offer their unique auditory and tactile experiences, each catering to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a crisper sound and a more substantial typing feel, while the Milky Red Pro excels in delivering a deeper sound and silky smooth keystrokes. Users looking for a substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0, while those who appreciate a smoother, more understated feel could favor the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, both switches present excellent options for newcomers seeking to personalize their mechanical keyboard experience, offering similar results in smoothness while delivering distinct auditory and tactile sensations.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) largely depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you seek. If you enjoy a more substantial feel with a bit of resistance, the G Pro 3.0 Black, with its medium-heavy bottom-out force and creamy, silky texture, will likely offer you a highly satisfying experience. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a clacky sound and want a switch that communicates its presence distinctly, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, if you prefer a smoother, lighter touch and a more muted auditory experience, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is likely your best bet. With its medium-light bottom-out force and buttery keystrokes, along with a low-pitched thock sound, it’s well-suited for quieter environments or prolonged typing where comfort is key. Ultimately, whether you opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black for its robust feedback or the Milky Red Pro for its gentle, fluid action, both switches deliver exceptional quality at a budget-friendly price, allowing you to tailor your keyboard experience to your own unique preferences.
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