Gateron Luciola vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola 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 Gateron Luciola and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, you have a variety of factors to consider. The Luciola switches are distinctive for their eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and unique sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switches are favored for their budget-friendly price point, smooth keystrokes that provide a buttery typing experience, and a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, they differ in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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 INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Luciola and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) differ in their housing materials. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, creating a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile when typing. This results in a satisfyingly clacky sound that is not overly sharp. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to the INK blend of the Luciola.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) each bring unique qualities to the typing experience. The INK blend of the Luciola offers a thin and higher-pitched sound that is characterized as clacky, while the nylon material of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound compared to the sharper sound of the Luciola. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different sound profiles and feels due to their varying housing materials.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in the typing experience. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Luciola and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) will be felt throughout the typing process, with the INK blend of the Luciola providing a sharper sound profile compared to the rounder sound of the nylon material in the Milky Red Pro (KS-3).
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we see differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Luciola has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's lighter 45 grams. On the other hand, the Luciola requires 60 grams to bottom out, while the Milky Red Pro needs 52 grams. This makes the Luciola switch heavier overall, while the Milky Red Pro is lighter. The Luciola provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Milky Red Pro offers a lighter touch that could be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches are in the medium range, but the slight variations can cater to different preferences in typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches offer a smooth linear actuation, the difference in travel distance may cater to different preferences. The shorter travel distance of the Luciola switch may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Milky Red Pro switch may provide a more substantial key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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
The Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its clacky and chirpy sound profile, which can be described as sharp, bright, and percussive. This switch also has a smooth and bouncy typing feel, giving users a responsive and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is praised for its bassy and thocky sound, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. The typing feel of the Milky Red Pro is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. While both switches offer smooth keystrokes, the Luciola excels in a more lively and snappy feel, while the Milky Red Pro delivers a deeper and more satisfying sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, but users can expect a smooth typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy switches that glow in the dark, the Luciola may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams and appreciate a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the better option for your needs. Ultimately, considering these factors will help you make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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