Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red 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 Jupiter Red and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both stand out as popular linear options. The Jupiter Reds offer a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience with a medium-heavy actuation, thanks to their single-stage spring mechanism. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switches are known for their budget-friendly nature and smooth keystrokes that produce a satisfying low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Jupiter Reds excel in providing a seamless and consistent typing experience, the Milky Red Pro switches offer a buttery smooth feel at an affordable price point. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Red and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both feature nylon bottom housings, providing a deep and full sound profile due to the softer plastic material that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. However, the Jupiter Red stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Jupiter Red creates a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more distinct typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics and functionality, the Gateron Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency. This can enhance the overall look of the keyboard setup and create a visually appealing experience for users. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, which may not offer the same level of visual appeal when it comes to RGB lighting integration. However, the nylon material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, giving users a different tactile experience compared to the Jupiter Red.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback due to their top housing materials. The Jupiter Red's use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, whereas the Milky Red Pro's nylon top housing brings a deeper and fuller sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel while typing, users can choose between the two switches to suit their specific needs. Ultimately, the choice between the Jupiter Red and the Milky Red Pro will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have similar actuation forces of 45 grams, making them both light switches that are easy to actuate with a gentle touch. However, when it comes to bottom out forces, the Jupiter Red is heavier at 60 grams, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is lighter at 52 grams. This means that typing on the Jupiter Red switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while typing on the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch will be lighter and gentler, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force preference.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from top to bottom. As a result, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience with both switches. Since both switches have the same travel distance, there is no difference in the length of travel between the two. Overall, whether you choose the Gateron Jupiter Red or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), you can expect a consistent and uniform travel distance of 4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound, providing a deeper and richer typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound, the Jupiter Red offers a more neutral option, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) delivers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is polished, creamy, silky, and mild, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In comparison, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. If you prefer a switch with a buttery feel that melts into each keystroke, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. However, if you appreciate a more polished and mild typing experience, the Jupiter Red is a solid choice.
Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Red provides a neutral sound profile and a polished typing experience, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) delivers a bassy sound and a buttery feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, with both options offering a smooth and consistent typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, consistent typing experience with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a bassy and thocky sound profile, and a buttery smooth typing feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance, so it's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
