Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile 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 Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3). The Ice King Tactile is praised for its blend of creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, offering a uniquely satisfying typing experience that combines the best of both worlds. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switches are known for their smooth and budget-friendly linear design, providing a buttery smooth feel with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
58g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both feature nylon as the material for their top and bottom housings. As a result, both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to the nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a more satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. Therefore, in terms of sound profile and overall typing experience, users can expect similar results from both the Ice King Tactile and the Milky Red Pro.
However, while both switches share the same housing materials, the design and construction of the switches may differ slightly, leading to variations in typing feel and sound. The placement of the nylon housing within the switches can impact the sound profile and feel of each key press. For example, the bottom housing of a switch may have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing may play a more prominent role in the sound when a key is released. These subtle differences can affect the overall typing experience and may appeal to different preferences among users.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound. While both switches offer a similar deep and full sound profile due to their nylon housing materials, the slight variations in design and construction may lead to different typing experiences for users. Whether you prefer a switch with a more pronounced bottom-out sound or a switch with a smoother key release sound, both options provide a satisfying typing experience that is enhanced by the properties of nylon housing. Ultimately, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from either switch option.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and bottom out force of 68 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch with a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 52 grams. The Ice King Tactile switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher force requirements, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer a different typing feel based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals who prefer either a heavier or lighter key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing experience and the desired level of force required for comfortable typing.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch delivers a bassy and thocky sound profile with a low-pitched tone, evoking a deep and rich sound reminiscent of bass tones. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Ice King Tactile offering a more subdued sound while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a bassier and more pronounced auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Tactile switch is described as silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with a refined finish that minimizes resistance and enhances smoothness. In comparison, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is characterized as buttery, providing a seamless, uniform, and fluid keystroke experience. Both switches aim to deliver a smooth typing feel, with the Ice King Tactile focusing on a refined and polished sensation, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) prioritizes a buttery smooth and uniform keystroke.
In conclusion, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch excels in providing a uniquely satisfying tactile typing experience with its creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, offering a symphony of touch. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch stands out for its smooth and budget-friendly linear switches that deliver a buttery smoothness paired with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both switches offering exceptional qualities in their respective categories. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying and high-quality typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a uniquely satisfying tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump, the Ice King Tactile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth, budget-friendly linear switch with a pleasing low-pitched sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) might be more suited to your preference. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
