Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both stand out as popular linear options. The Ink Black V2 is renowned for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, offering a low-pitched, bassey, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) boasts a buttery smoothness and a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound, making it a budget-friendly choice for those seeking a smooth and affordable typing experience. While both switches offer unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, it is important to delve deeper into their specific features and qualities to make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs. 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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon housing for both its top and bottom, which produces a deeper and fuller sound that is duller and rounder compared to the Ink Black V2. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their housing materials, the Ink Black V2 provides a sharper and thinner sound, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a more mellow and fuller sound.
In terms of the top housing, the Ink Black V2's INK blend results in a higher-pitched sound that is not overly sharp, creating a satisfying clacky sound. Meanwhile, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile that is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound. When it comes to the bottom housing, the characteristics of the INK blend in the Ink Black V2 contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, while the nylon bottom housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Overall, these differences in housing materials lead to distinct sound experiences for each switch.
While the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, they both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The INK blend in the Ink Black V2 provides a sharper and thinner sound profile, especially when it comes to the clacky sound that is often associated with this switch. On the other hand, the nylon housing in the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) results in a deeper and fuller sound that is rounder and softer compared to the Ink Black V2. Whether you prefer a sharper clacky sound or a mellower, fuller sound, both switches offer unique sound experiences that are influenced by their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we see a clear difference in weight. The Ink Black V2 requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, giving a medium-light feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Milky Red Pro, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Ink Black V2 offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference in typing feel and force preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience and overall feel of the keys will be quite similar between the two switches. So, in terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches offer a bassy and low-pitched tone during key presses. The Ink Black V2 has been noted for its slightly chirpy sound, adding a unique acoustic signature to the switch, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel, the Ink Black V2 switch is commonly referred to as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and sleek key travel. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is described as buttery, promising a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Ink Black V2 leaning towards a safe, middle-ground feel, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) focuses on a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches may have some differences in sound and feel characteristics, both switches offer a smooth typing experience with unique qualities. Whether you prefer a slightly chirpy sound with a polished feel or a thocky sound with a buttery feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on your personal preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to your individual preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more bass-heavy and mellow sound profile, the Ink Black V2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth, buttery keystroke experience, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) might be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
