Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Honey Bean 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 Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are both popular choices, each with its own set of unique characteristics. The Honey Bean switches are well-known for their light and linear action, making them perfect for environments where minimizing noise is essential. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switches are praised for their smooth keystrokes and satisfying low-pitched sound at an affordable price point. While the Honey Bean is ideal for a discreet typing experience, the Milky Red Pro excels in providing a buttery smooth feel with a satisfying "thock" 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
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
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both offer unique sound profiles, with the Honey Bean utilizing POM for both its top and bottom housing, while the Milky Red Pro incorporates nylon material for its top and bottom housing. POM housings in the Honey Bean create a deeper and more muted sound profile, while nylon housings in the Milky Red Pro elicit a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. Both switches offer distinct sound experiences based on their housing materials.
While the Honey Bean and the Milky Red Pro share similarities in their use of POM and nylon materials for their respective housing, they differ in the specific qualities each material brings to the switch. The POM housings in the Honey Bean create a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and relatively muted, while the nylon housings in the Milky Red Pro offer a fuller and rounder sound due to the softer nature of the material. These differences result in distinct typing experiences for users of each switch, with the housing materials playing a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, such as the deeper sound profile of POM in the Honey Bean and the fuller sound profile of nylon in the Milky Red Pro, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and sound when comparing switches with the same housing material. Whether it be POM or nylon, the housing material contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch, creating a distinctive typing experience for users.
Weight
The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Honey Bean's information is unavailable, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a bottom out force of 52 grams, which is considered medium-light. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly quicker typing experience for the Honey Bean, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may provide a more substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Honey Bean, while users who prefer a bit more resistance may prefer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we see that the Honey Bean has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Milky Red Pro's 4 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Milky Red Pro is more traditional, while the 3.7 mm of the Honey Bean caters to those looking for a shorter and faster response time. Gamers may prefer the Honey Bean for its quicker actuation, while others may find the Milky Red Pro more suitable for its slightly longer and more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.
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 Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is known for its muted operation, offering a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for shared environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is praised for its bassy and thocky sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone with a low-pitched resonance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Honey Bean catering to those seeking a more discreet typing experience, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) appeals to fans of a satisfyingly deep and rich sound during keystrokes.
In terms of feel, the Honey Bean switch is described as easy-to-press and feathery, offering a light and gentle typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue and enhances overall comfort. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is likened to a buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. Both switches prioritize a comfortable typing sensation, with the Honey Bean emphasizing ease of use and low-impact typing, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) focuses on delivering a seamless and consistent typing feel.
Overall, both the Jerrzi Honey Bean and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Honey Bean excels in providing a muted and easy-to-press typing experience, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) stands out for its bassy sound and buttery feel. Depending on whether you prioritize a quiet typing environment or seek a satisfyingly rich keystroke experience, either switch can offer a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience tailored to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches are sure to provide a level of satisfaction and comfort that makes typing a pleasure.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you value a silent typing experience suitable for an office or shared space, the Honey Bean switches with their light, linear action and muted sound may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and budget-friendly option with a satisfyingly low-pitched "thock" sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switches could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile in order to enhance your overall typing experience.
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