Dareu Holly vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3). The Dareu Holly switch, known for its tactile feedback and medium 50g actuation force, offers users a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements for a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switches are linear switches that provide a smooth and affordable typing experience, with buttery smooth keystrokes and a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Holly switch caters to those looking for a distinctive tactile typing experience, the Milky Red Pro switches are ideal for users seeking a smooth and budget-friendly option. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it's clear that they both use nylon for their bottom housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to the absorbent nature of nylon. The softer plastic of the nylon bottom housing helps to create a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches. Despite any other differences between the switches, the nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent sound quality between them.
On the other hand, the top housings of the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) differ in material composition. The Holly features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) uses nylon. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when compared to the deeper and fuller sound elicited by nylon. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing option for users.
When considering how the top and bottom housings impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, it's important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The nylon bottom housing will contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound when a key is released. This means that the combination of nylon and polycarbonate in the Dareu Holly and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) respectively offers a balanced typing experience with unique sound profiles for both keypresses and key releases.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Holly requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro is heavier at 52 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Holly. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Milky Red Pro for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Holly with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences based on the preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed. Users can expect consistent feedback and performance when using either switch, as the travel distance is identical. Whether you choose the Holly tactile switch or the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you can rely on the fact that the travel distance will be the same, resulting in a familiar typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a distinct typing experience for users seeking a balanced and engaging sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro linear switch is praised for its smooth keystrokes that produce a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound, creating a buttery smooth and satisfying auditory experience. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the chirpy and clacky sound of the Holly switch or the bassy and thocky sound of the Milky Red Pro switch to enhance their typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Holly tactile switch information is currently not available, so it is difficult to compare the tactile feedback of this switch with the buttery smooth keystrokes offered by the Gateron Milky Red Pro linear switch. However, based on the description provided, the Milky Red Pro switch is designed to deliver a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, resulting in a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, for users looking for a unique sound profile with a balance of chirpy and clacky elements, the Dareu Holly tactile switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if a smooth and affordable typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound is preferred, the Gateron Milky Red Pro linear switch would be the ideal option. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, the Holly switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and affordable typing experience with a buttery smoothness and pleasing low-pitched “thock” sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is a great option. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, so choose based on what best suits your typing style and preferences.
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