Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a smooth typing experience at an affordable price point. The Milky Red Pro is praised for its buttery smooth keystrokes and low-pitched "thock" sound, perfect for those seeking a budget-friendly and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro stands out with its all-around performance, incorporating smoothness, a low "thocky" sound, and satisfyingly thick resistance suitable for both gaming and typing tasks. While both switches share qualities such as being buttery and bassy, the Milky Yellow Pro also offers a textured feel, making it versatile for various typing preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) are both made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon compared to harder plastics allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with this material. This similarity in housing materials suggests that both switches will offer a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housings of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) are both made of nylon, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings highlights how the construction of a switch can affect the overall typing experience, with the choice of housing material playing a significant role in the sound profile and tactile feedback of the switch.
Overall, the use of nylon as the housing material for both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. The softer nature of nylon allows for sound absorption, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on these switches. Whether it's the red or yellow variant, the nylon housing material of these switches contributes to a unique typing experience that is both satisfying and distinctive.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) would be better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a lighter touch compared to the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either of these switches. Both switches provide a consistent and predictable key press experience, making them a great choice for those who value reliability and smoothness in their typing or gaming.
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 Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches are described as having a deep, bassy, and satisfying "thocky" sound profile when pressed. The low-pitched tone of these switches adds to the richness and depth of the sound, creating an immersive typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Milky Red or Milky Yellow switch, you can expect a pleasant and satisfying auditory feedback while typing.
Moving on to feel, both switches are commonly described as providing a buttery smooth keystroke experience. This means that the actuation and bottoming out of the keys are seamless and effortless, allowing for a uniform and satisfying typing sensation. Additionally, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is noted for its slightly textured feel, which may add a subtle tactile feedback for those who prefer a bit of resistance during their keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches offer a smooth and affordable typing experience with a deep, bassy, and thocky sound profile. The buttery smooth keystroke feel of both switches ensures a comfortable and satisfying typing experience for users. Whether you choose the Milky Red or Milky Yellow switch, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, making either option a reliable choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking a quality typing switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and affordable typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a buttery smooth keystroke with a low-pitched "thock" sound, perfect for those who prioritize a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, if you are seeking a budget-friendly switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch with a medium bottom out force may be more suitable for you. With a satisfyingly thick resistance and a versatile low-pitched "thocky" sound, the Milky Yellow Pro is a great all-purpose switch option for budget enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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