HMX Lucky vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky 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 HMX Lucky and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Lucky switches are characterized by their softer, glittery nylon housings and a typing experience that feels both neutral and deeply satisfying. Users often describe these switches as clacky, bouncy, silky, and polished, making them an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation in their typing. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switches shine with their reputation for affordability and smoothness; they deliver buttery keystrokes accompanied by a pleasing low-pitched “thock” sound. Categorized as buttery, bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, these switches appeal to gamers and typists alike who value a whisper-quiet experience without sacrificing responsiveness. While both switch types present unique attributes suited to varying preferences, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Lucky switches and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it becomes evident that both switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This shared material ensures that both switches produce a similar acoustic profile characterized by a deeper and fuller sound. The inherent properties of nylon—its softer composition compared to harder plastics—contribute to a sound absorption capability that dampens vibrations, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing. This similarity provides users with a consistent auditory experience across both switch types, regardless of specific design differences that may exist elsewhere within the components.
Both switches leverage nylon in their housings, which speaks to the material's effectiveness in creating a satisfying typing experience. The tactile feedback on bottoming out and the acoustic signature upon releasing each key will feel remarkably comparable across the two switch types. Since both the HMX Lucky and Gateron Milky Red Pro share the same top and bottom housing material, the impact of these housings on sound and feel is evenly distributed, allowing users to enjoy a continuous sensory experience with both switches. This consistency is vital for typists or gamers who rely on a predictable response from their keyboard.
Although the use of nylon in both the HMX Lucky and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) ensures similar acoustic outcomes and feedback, individual experiences can still vary depending on factors such as switch design, stem, and actuation force. While the overall sound and feel will be rooted in the common nylon composition, nuances in key travel can lead to different tactile sensations during use. Users may find that personal preferences, such as the specific design of the switch stem or the manner in which they engage with the keyboard, lead to a unique experience even when the foundational materials are identical. Thus, while the material similarities facilitate comparable results, the overall typing experience remains subjective and diverse.
Weight
The HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch, which can enhance comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. As such, the Lucky switch is lighter overall, while the Gateron switch is heavier, providing a firmer resistance that some typists may find satisfying. Ultimately, users seeking a wispy feel might gravitate towards the HMX Lucky, while those in favor of a more tactile resistance would likely prefer the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there is a noticeable difference: the Lucky switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Milky Red Pro measures at 4.0 mm. This makes the Lucky switch the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times and a more responsive feel. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more traditional typing experience that some users may find preferable for a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the HMX Lucky would be an excellent choice, whereas the Gateron Milky Red Pro could be ideal for those who enjoy a greater depth in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky 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 Lucky linear switch delivers a clacky auditory experience that produces a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive nature. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a deeper, richer sound profile, often described as bassey and thocky. The Milky Red Pro creates low-pitched tones that resemble deep “thuds” or soft “knocks,” which is particularly satisfying to many users. While both switches provide enjoyable acoustics, their sound profiles diverge significantly, with the Lucky leaning towards a brighter tone and the Milky Red Pro favoring a deeper resonance.
When considering the feel, the Lucky switch excels with its bouncy, silky, and polished characteristics. This switch offers a delightful spring-like feedback that feels lively and responsive, providing a smooth typing experience due to reduced friction and enhanced key travel. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro is celebrated for its buttery feel, which implies a fluid and seamless keystroke experience that feels effortless. While the Lucky offers more varied feedback sensations with its bouncy nature, both switches provide a high level of smoothness that can lead to similarly relaxed typing experiences.
Overall, when choosing between the HMX Lucky and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches, it boils down to personal preference in terms of sound and tactile feedback. If you enjoy a sharper, more percussive sound combined with lively feedback, the Lucky is an appealing option. However, if you seek a more bass-heavy and satisfying auditory experience coupled with a buttery smooth feel, the Milky Red Pro is the way to go. Both switches provide high-quality typing experiences, but their distinct qualities cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a softer touch and a bouncy feel, the Lucky switch is an excellent choice. Its lightweight design, with a bottom-out force of just 43 grams, makes it suitable for those who prefer a light typing experience that is both smooth and satisfying. The clacky sound profile adds an element of playfulness, making it ideal for casual use or for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more heft in your keystrokes combined with a rich, deep sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro is the way to go. With a bottom-out force of 52 grams, its buttery smooth keystrokes and thocky sound make it well-suited for prolonged typing sessions, whether for work or gaming. Its more substantial feel can lead to a more grounded typing experience. Thus, consider what aspects—lightness or weight, sound profile, and overall feel—are most important to you when making your decision.