Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the benefits of different types. On one hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches stand out with their vibrant, clacky sound, making them an ideal choice for those who value acoustics and an elevated typing experience, particularly on Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. Their unique hall effect mechanism offers a responsive feel that caters to typists seeking a dynamic connection with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) presents a contrasting option with its smooth and budget-friendly linear design. These switches deliver a buttery smoothness coupled with a satisfying low-pitched “thock” sound, perfect for those who prioritize a quiet and seamless typing experience. While the Magnetic Jade shines in auditory feedback, the Milky Red Pro excels in affordability and comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Polycarbonate
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 Gateron Magnetic Jade and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches each utilize distinct materials for their top housings, resulting in different auditory experiences. The Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This quality stems from the material's stiffness, contributing to a clear and resonant acoustic response. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination to shine through. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) employs a nylon top housing that generates a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This material absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory effect, which can appeal to users seeking a cushioning and more subdued typographical experience.
On the other hand, both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material. With consistent use of nylon, both models provide the same deeper and fuller sound profile originating from the bottom of the switch. Nylon's ability to absorb sound influences the bottom-out sound and feel, ensuring that both the Magnetic Jade and Milky Red Pro switches maintain a similar typing experience in terms of dampening and sound depth when the key is pressed. This uniformity in bottom housing material allows for a common ground where the typing experience remains consistent across different switch models, albeit influenced by the variances in top housing materials.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials highlight the unique qualities each switch offers while retaining similarities in their bottom housing. This combination results in the Magnetic Jade producing a brighter, more pronounced sound upon release, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a softer and mellower response. The contrasting effects of the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom of the Magnetic Jade create a distinct typing engagement when paired together, thereby encapsulating the operator's intended sonic outcome. Conversely, the Milky Red Pro allows users to enjoy a nuanced and full sound while bottoming out, embodying the warmth and rich tone of nylon throughout the entirety of its design. Thus, while both switches feature nylon in the base, their overall sound profiles diverge due to the top material differences, catering to individual preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Magnetic Jade has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 45 grams. This means that the Magnetic Jade will require less force to trigger a keystroke, making it more suitable for prolonged typing and gaming sessions, especially for those who prefer a lighter touch. In terms of bottom out force, the Magnetic Jade again feels a bit heavier at 55 grams versus the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams. Ultimately, while both switches are classified as medium-light, the Magnetic Jade offers a more flexible and lighter typing experience due to its lower actuation force, while the Milky Red Pro provides a slightly more substantial feel with its heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we find a distinction in their design. The Magnetic Jade features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Milky Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Magnetic Jade offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or users who prefer quicker actuation and fast response times. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, may provide a more traditional typing experience that some users find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, if you lean towards responsiveness, the Magnetic Jade would be the better choice, while those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke might opt for the Milky Red Pro.
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 Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 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 Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch stands out with its bright and clacky acoustics, which is ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback when typing. This quality makes it a popular choice for users wanting to elevate their typing experience with lively sounds. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) produces a more subdued, low-pitched thock that is rich and satisfying. The bassy and thocky tones, combined with the softer sound profile, contribute to a quieter typing experience compared to the Magnetic Jade. Both switches create unique audio landscapes that will ultimately depend on the keyboard and keycaps used, but the Magnetic Jade is noted for its more vibrant sound, while the Milky Red Pro is favored for its smoothness and depth.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Magnetic Jade is designed to provide an enhanced tactile experience; however, the specific characteristics of its feel are not detailed. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is lauded for its buttery smooth keystrokes, which facilitate a seamless and effortless typing sensation. This performance is particularly appealing to users looking for a fluid and uniform typing experience without any disruptive feedback. While the specifics of the Magnetic Jade’s feel are left unknown, it’s clear that the Milky Red Pro excels in providing an exceptional tactile quality.
In summary, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) each offer distinct sound and feel profiles suited to different preferences. The Magnetic Jade is characterized by its bright, clacky sound and potentially engaging tactile feedback—though specific details about its feel are lacking—making it a vibrant option for those who enjoy auditory stimulation. Meanwhile, the Milky Red Pro provides a smoother, quieter typing experience with a rich thock sound, catering to users who appreciate a more mellow auditory experience and seamless keystrokes. Depending on one’s priorities in typing—be it sound or feel—both switch choices will deliver unique yet satisfying results.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and the typing experience you desire. If you prioritize a bright, clacky sound profile along with enhanced acoustics, then the Magnetic Jade is an excellent choice, particularly if you're looking to upgrade your Wooting Hall Effect keyboard for a superior typing experience. Additionally, its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams makes it ideal for those who enjoy a bit more feedback and tactile sensation in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you seek a smooth, buttery typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched thock sound and want to maintain an affordable budget, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. With its slightly lighter bottom-out force of 52 grams, it allows for effortless typing and is ideal if you're more focused on speed and fluidity. Ultimately, weigh these characteristics against how you intend to use your keyboard, and you’ll be well on your way to selecting the switch that best suits your typing style.
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