Durock Light Tactile vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile 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 Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offer two distinct experiences for users. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is praised for its gentle tactility, providing a softer and more refined typing experience compared to other tactile switches on the market. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switches from Gateron are known for their smooth linear action, offering a budget-friendly option with a buttery smooth keystroke and low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Light Tactile switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is described as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it is evident that both switches feature nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its softer nature that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. While they both offer similar acoustic benefits, the Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing sets it apart by providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, particularly ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features nylon for both top and bottom housing materials, resulting in consistent sound qualities throughout the switch. The use of nylon in both housings creates a deep and full sound profile, making it a classic choice for switch materials. In contrast, the Light Tactile's combination of polycarbonate and nylon allows for a unique split in sound characteristics between the top and bottom housing. Pressing down on the switch will reveal the impact of the nylon bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. Both switches offer distinct qualities based on their housing materials, with the Light Tactile providing a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) delivers a consistent deep and full sound profile with its nylon housing throughout. Whether you prefer the clarity of polycarbonate or the absorbent nature of nylon, these housing materials play a significant role in defining the overall typing experience with these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Light Tactile has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's lighter 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Light Tactile requires 67 grams, which is heavier than the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams. This means that the Light Tactile provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Milky Red Pro offers a lighter touch, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Light Tactile being on the medium-heavy side and the Milky Red Pro falling into the medium-light category. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it can be said that both switches provide a consistent amount of distance for users to feel when pressing down on a key. This allows for a satisfying tactile or linear experience, depending on the preference of the user. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key press feel and overall typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile with a gentle tactility that produces a satisfying jelly-like sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a bassy and thocky sound quality with a low-pitched tone that provides a deep and rich sound experience. Depending on your preference for sound, the Light Tactile switch may be more suitable for those looking for a softer and more neutral typing experience, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is ideal for those seeking a deeper and more satisfying sound profile during key presses.
In terms of feel, the Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle tactility that falls within a safe middle-ground zone for most users. The smooth and refined finish of the switch contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is known for its buttery smoothness, delivering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation that is highly satisfying for users seeking a smoother keystroke experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a gentler and more neutral sound with a mild and polished feel, the Light Tactile switch would be a great choice. Alternatively, if you enjoy a deeper and richer sound with a buttery smooth typing experience, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality tactile and linear options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, offering a satisfying typing experience based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches, it all comes down to your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a more gentle and jelly-like tactility with a neutral sound profile, then the Light Tactile switch might be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery keystroke with a bassy and thocky sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch would be the ideal option. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and tactile feedback desired when making your decision between these two switches.
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