Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) present intriguing options with distinct characteristics. The Milky Red Pro switches offer a smooth and budget-friendly linear typing experience, characterized by a buttery feel and a pleasing low-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Moyu Blacks provide a sharp tactile feedback, featuring a unique blend of materials that create a premium typing sensation with a strong downstroke and an even sharper upstroke bump. While the former is praised for its smoothness and affordability, the latter stands out for its sharpness and distinct tactile response. 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
67g
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
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade), we see that both switches have unique characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Moyu Black boasts a PBT top housing, offering a more neutral sound profile that is neither crisp nor dull. While both materials have their own advantages, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches continue to showcase their distinct characteristics. The Milky Red Pro's nylon bottom housing also contributes to its deep and full sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out a key. Similarly, the Moyu Black's PBT bottom housing provides a neutral sound profile that is neither sharp nor flat. These differences in sound profiles highlight the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience, emphasizing the importance of material choice when selecting a switch.
Overall, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro and the Everglide Moyu Black feature different housing materials, they ultimately aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the deeper sound of nylon or the neutral sound of PBT, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences. By understanding the characteristics of each housing material, users can make an informed decision based on their sound preferences when selecting a switch for their mechanical keyboard.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Moyu Black. The Milky Red Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Moyu Black has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. The actuation force in a switch determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to fully press the key. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Milky Red Pro would be the preferred choice. However, for individuals who seek a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Moyu Black would be the better option.Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that you will get consistent results in terms of key press feel and feedback when using either switch.Ultimately, whether you choose the Milky Red Pro or the Moyu Black, you can expect the same travel distance experience.
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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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 Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is best described as having a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, giving off a bassy and satisfying tone during key presses. In contrast, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch provides a resonant and sharp sound experience, with a higher-pitched and clean sound that enhances the auditory feedback while typing. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with the Milky Red Pro offering a deeper and richer tone, while the Moyu Black provides a more sharp and resonant sound.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is renowned for its buttery and smooth keystrokes, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch presents a sharp and accented tactile feel, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each keypress. While the Milky Red Pro excels in providing a uniform and buttery typing experience, the Moyu Black offers a more pronounced tactile feedback that can enhance the typing precision and overall satisfaction.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched thocky sound and a buttery smooth feel, ideal for those seeking a budget-friendly yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch stands out with its resonant sound and sharp tactile feedback, offering a premium typing experience with a unique blend of PBT housing. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In summary, 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 would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a sharp and tactile feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy an immersive auditory experience, then the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch would be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and level of tactile feedback. Choose wisely and enjoy the satisfying typing experience that best suits your preferences.