Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are both linear switches that offer unique typing experiences. The G Pro 3.0 White is designed for delicate typists with its incredibly light actuation force of 38g, making keystrokes effortless and sensitive. It also features a frosted light diffuser for brighter RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a smooth and affordable typing experience with buttery smooth keystrokes and a low-pitched "thock" sound. While both switches offer budget-friendly options and unique characteristics, the G Pro 3.0 White is ideal for those looking for a light and satisfying typing experience, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is perfect for those who prefer a smoother feel with a subtle sound. 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
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), we can see that both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. However, the G Pro 3.0 White's top housing is made of polycarbonate, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a nylon top housing for a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a different sound experience depending on which switch they choose, with the G Pro 3.0 White offering a clearer sound and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) providing a softer sound.
When it comes to the visual aspect, the G Pro 3.0 White's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) does not offer this feature with its opaque nylon top housing. While both switches have a nylon bottom housing, the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel will be more noticeable on the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) due to the softer material, whereas the G Pro 3.0 White's polycarbonate top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, users looking for a switch with a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile and the option for RGB lighting may prefer the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White with its polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, those seeking a deeper, fuller sound experience and a classic switch housing material may lean towards the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, the differences in the top housing material will result in distinct sound and visual effects for each switch.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we see that the G Pro 3.0 White is lighter in terms of actuation force at 38 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) at 45 grams, which is a bit heavier. Similarly, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 White is 45 grams, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) requires 52 grams to bottom out, making it slightly heavier as well. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, perfect for gamers and typists who prefer a consistent keystroke. Those who enjoy a lighter touch may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 White, while individuals seeking a bit more resistance may find the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the key travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of feel and responsiveness when using either switch. In conclusion, both switches provide the same travel distance, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a linear typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 White for $3.27.
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 White linear switch is characterized by a medium-high pitch that offers a satisfying and clacky auditory feedback. The sound is described as crisp, bright, and percussive, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, evoking a deep and rich "thock" sound during key presses. This sound is characterized by a buttery smoothness that adds a pleasing depth to the typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 White switch is praised for its creamy, easy-to-press, and feathery characteristics, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that requires minimal force to activate. The keys feel silky and glide effortlessly under the fingers, reducing fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation that is smooth and fluid. While specific details are not provided, the buttery feel implies a comfortable and effortless keystroke experience.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky sound with a medium-high pitch and a creamy, easy-to-press feel, the G Pro 3.0 White switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched, bassy sound with a buttery smooth feel that is characterized as buttery, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch would be more suitable. Both switches provide a budget-friendly option for those seeking a premium typing experience, ensuring that you can achieve similar results in terms of quality and satisfaction with either choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a clacky, neutral sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 White may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bassy, thocky sound profile, along with a buttery typing feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the better option. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a smooth and buttery keystroke experience or a brighter RGB lighting with a satisfying auditory feedback, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Make your decision based on what aspects are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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