HMX Lotus vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, you have two noteworthy linear options to consider. The HMX Lotus switches are renowned for their medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switches offer a smooth and affordable typing experience, with budget-friendly linear switches known for their buttery smoothness and pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) use nylon as the material for both their top and bottom switch housings. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. With nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound when typing on either switch. The duller and rounder sound created by the nylon material will provide a satisfying typing experience for those who appreciate a quieter switch.
While both switches share the same housing material, the design and construction of the housings may differ slightly between the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3). These differences could potentially impact the overall typing experience, with factors such as sound profile, key feel, and durability being influenced by the specific design choices made by each manufacturer. It's important for users to consider these nuances when selecting a switch for their keyboard setup, as the housing material is just one aspect that can affect overall performance.
Despite the similarities in housing material, the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may offer unique advantages or drawbacks based on their specific design features and configurations. Users should take into account factors such as actuation force, key travel distance, and overall switch design when deciding between these two options. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Lotus and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) will come down to personal preferences and individual typing needs, as both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their nylon switch housings.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of trigger pressure. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Lotus requires 50 grams while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) needs 52 grams, giving the Lotus a slightly lighter feel overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, the Lotus may be the more suitable option. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a slightly heavier bottom out force for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out force, with the Lotus being lighter and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) being slightly heavier.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lotus offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favorite among gamers looking for speed and precision. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a slightly deeper key press with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth linear actuation, but the slight difference in travel distance can make a significant impact on the overall feel and performance of the keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers a bright and resonant sound, creating a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound, which provides a smooth and affordable typing experience with a buttery smoothness. The Lotus switch may provide a more vibrant and resonant sound, while the Milky Red Pro switch offers a deeper and richer bass tone, creating a satisfying thock sound with each press. The ultimate sound experience will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus switch is known for offering a medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a delightful bouncy feeling with each keystroke. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as offering a buttery smoothness, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Lotus switch may provide a more tactile and bouncy feel, whereas the Milky Red Pro switch offers a smoother and more uniform typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a bouncy tactile feel or a smooth and effortless typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The HMX Lotus switch provides a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy tactile feel, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro switch offers a pleasing low-pitched thock sound with a buttery smooth typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a vibrant and bouncy typing experience or a smooth and effortless feel, both switches have their own strengths to cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the best choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a bouncy feeling and bright sound, the HMX Lotus would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force with a smooth and affordable typing experience, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) might be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a resonant sound and a smooth typing sensation, the Lotus switch would be a good fit. However, if you prefer a low-pitched "thock" sound and a buttery smooth keystroke experience, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch could be the perfect match for you. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so make sure to consider your preferences in sound and feel before making your decision.
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