Gazzew LT vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT 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 Gazzew LT and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) stand out as top contenders in the realm of linear switches. The Gazzew LT, with its alluring lilac hue, offers a typing experience like no other, characterized by a deep, resonant "thock" sound with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro is praised for its smooth and affordable nature, providing a buttery smooth typing experience paired with a low-pitched "thock" sound. While the LT is best known for its bassy and thocky qualities, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) excels in being buttery and low-pitched. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and typing 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
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), both switches utilize softer plastics in their top housing for a richer and deeper sound profile. The Gazzew LT features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," which enhances the typing experience with its softness. Similarly, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) uses nylon for its top housing, providing a fuller sound due to the material's ability to absorb more sound. While the specific blends of plastics may differ, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience with their top housing materials.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) maintain a focus on creating a rich and deep sound profile through their softer plastic materials. The Gazzew LT's proprietary blend bottom housing, also referred to as "boba plastic," contributes to the overall sound quality of the switch by adding a touch of softness. Likewise, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which absorbs sound effectively and enhances the switch's overall sound profile. Despite the differences in the exact materials used, both switches prioritize creating a pleasant typing experience through their bottom housing materials.
In summary, while the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may differ in the specific plastic blends used for their housing materials, they ultimately share a common goal of providing a rich and deep sound profile for users. Both switches leverage the softer qualities of their housing materials, whether it be the proprietary Gazzew blend in the LT or the classic nylon in the Milky Red Pro, to enhance the typing experience and create a satisfying sound profile. Whether pressing down on the switch or letting go of a key, users can expect a similar level of sound quality and overall typing satisfaction from both switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the LT switch has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams, making it heavier in terms of pressure needed to fully press the key. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams as opposed to the LT's unknown actuation force, implying that it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This means that the LT switch would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Milky Red Pro would be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions due to its lighter actuation force. In essence, users who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Milky Red Pro, while those seeking a more robust typing feel may lean towards the Gazzew LT.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is clear that the LT has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Milky Red Pro. The LT's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience, as shorter distances can lead to faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Milky Red Pro may provide users with a more satisfying depth and keypress experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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, both the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches offer a deep and rich auditory experience, characterized by a low-pitched and satisfying "thock" sound. The LT switches are known for their bassy and thocky sound profile, while the Milky Red Pro switches also exhibit a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a thocky quality. Ultimately, both switches will provide a similar sound profile, offering a pleasant typing experience enhanced by the deep, satisfying sound they produce.
Moving on to feel, the Gazzew LT switches are renowned for their seamless glide with every keystroke, providing users with a smooth and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches are described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is uniform and comfortable. While the specific feel of the LT switches is unknown, based on the buttery description of the Milky Red Pro switches, users can expect a similarly smooth and satisfying typing experience with both switches.
In conclusion, both the Gazzew LT linear switches and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches offer an enticing combination of deep, resonant sound and smooth, effortless keystrokes. While the LT switches are praised for their thocky sound and seamless glide, the Milky Red Pro switches excel in providing a buttery typing experience with a low-pitched and satisfying thock sound. Whether you prefer a lilac-hued switch with a deep thockiness or a budget-friendly option with a smooth and pleasing sound, both switches are excellent choices for those seeking a tactile and auditory delight in their typing sessions.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the characteristics that align with your preferences. If you value a solid bottom out force of 65 grams and enjoy a deep, resonant thockiness with every keystroke, the LT may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams and desire a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched thock sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a heavier, bassy feel or a lighter, buttery typing sensation. Happy typing!
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