Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offer distinct qualities catering to different preferences. The Outemu Lime switch is a tactile option known for its lightweight feel, gentle tactility, and silencing feature, making it ideal for those who appreciate a feathery typing experience with a touch of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switches are linear switches that provide a smooth and affordable typing experience, offering buttery keystrokes and a low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Lime switch appeals to tactile enthusiasts seeking a polished feel, the Milky Red Pro switch appeals to those looking for a budget-friendly option with a buttery smooth typing experience. 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
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Lime and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both use nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on both switches, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs sound effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound. This makes them ideal for users who prefer a quieter typing experience with a more muted sound feedback.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housing materials, there may still be some subtle differences in the overall sound and feel due to variations in design and construction. The qualities of the nylon material will be split between the top and bottom housings of each switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel more significantly, while the top housing will affect the sound when keys are released. These nuances in design could result in slight variations in the typing experience between the Outemu Lime and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3).
In terms of housing materials, the Outemu Lime and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may offer a similar typing experience due to both switches utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings. Users can expect a consistent deep and full sound profile with a softer plastic feel when typing on either switch. The choice between the two switches may ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of design, key feel, and overall typing experience beyond just the housing material used.
Weight
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Lime requires 45 grams while the Milky Red Pro needs 52 grams to bottom out. This makes the Lime switch overall lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Milky Red Pro switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Lime switch, while those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel may find the Milky Red Pro more to their liking. Overall, while their actuation and bottom out forces differ, both switches offer a smooth typing experience with the actuation forces ensuring quick response times and the bottom out forces providing added stability during typing.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Lime has a shorter travel distance compared to the Milky Red Pro. The shorter travel distance of the Lime may appeal to individuals looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Milky Red Pro may provide a more satisfying depth when pressing down on the key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experience.
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 Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40 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 Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, making it a great choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound that offers a deeper and richer auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Lime switch being more muted and neutral, while the Milky Red Pro switch leans towards a deeper and more satisfying sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a feathery and subtle typing experience, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for long typing sessions. The switch is also described as mild and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its buttery feel, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation that is uniform and smooth. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Lime switch being lighter and more subtle, while the Milky Red Pro switch offers a buttery and effortless typing feel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Lime switch provides a muted and neutral sound with a feathery and polished feel, while the Milky Red Pro switch offers a bassy and thocky sound with a buttery feel. Both switches are unique in their own right and provide a satisfying typing experience, making them great choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for something different in terms of sound and feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience that is sure to meet your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a light tactile switch with a gentle typing experience and a muted sound profile, the Outemu Lime switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing sensation with a low-pitched and satisfying sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style, sound preferences, and overall typing comfort.
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