Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to take note of. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its unique material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon to create a delightfully creamy and lightweight feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its smooth and affordable typing experience, offering smooth keystrokes with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Keygeek Raw is categorized as textured, mild, neutral, and subtle, the Milky Red Pro is described as buttery, bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) differ in composition but share certain characteristics. The Keygeek Raw features a Nylon & UPE blend top housing, which is exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) boasts a classic nylon top housing known for producing a deep and full sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounded and muted sound when typing. In terms of bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a UMPE & Si blend unique to its switches, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) employs a nylon bottom housing. This split in housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the two switches, they both offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The nylon top housing in the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Nylon & UPE blend top housing in the Keygeek Raw both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in both switches affects the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, further enhancing the overall typing experience.
While the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may have different housing materials, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. The unique blends of materials used in the Keygeek Raw switches contribute to a distinct sound profile, while the classic nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a similarly deep and full sound. Whether it's the UMPE & Si blend bottom housing of the Keygeek Raw or the nylon bottom housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3), both switches deliver a tactile response that enhances the overall typing experience. Ultimately, while there are differences in housing materials, the end result is a comparable typing experience that is sure to please mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Keygeek Raw has an actuation force of None grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, its bottom out force of 57.5 grams provides a medium-weight resistance for a more solid typing experience. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, suitable for those who prefer a slightly lighter touch. Its bottom out force of 52 grams falls in the medium-light range, offering a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Overall, the Keygeek Raw switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is lighter, catering to different preferences for keyboard users.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter of the two options compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Keygeek Raw's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro with a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth when pressing down on a key for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a neutral profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switch is characterized by a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound that delivers a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. The choice between these two switches will ultimately depend on your personal preference for sound, as well as the additional factors of your keyboard and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the Keygeek Raw switch provides a textured and mild typing experience with a subtle resistance, making it a versatile option for users who appreciate a nuanced tactile response. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switch is described as offering a buttery smooth keystroke, providing a seamless and fluid typing sensation. Whether you prefer a subtle texture or a buttery smooth feel will depend on your individual typing style and comfort preferences.
Overall, while the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both are excellent choices for enthusiasts looking for a linear typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results in typing satisfaction with either switch by exploring different combinations of keyboards and keycaps to find the perfect match for your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Keygeek Raw if you prefer a slightly textured feel right out of the box and enjoy switches with a unique material blend that is both creamy and lightweight. The Keygeek Raw is a great starting point for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches. On the other hand, opt for the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) if you are looking for a smooth and affordable typing experience with a buttery smoothness and a low-pitched "thock" sound. The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is known for its budget-friendly price point and satisfying typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and material blend, so consider these factors carefully before making a decision between these two linear switches.
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