Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Cherry MX Brown both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milky Red Pro is a linear switch known for its smooth and affordable typing experience, providing a buttery smoothness and a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown is a tactile switch that offers a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subtle audio feedback. While the Milky Red Pro is buttery and bassy, the MX Brown is textured and bassy. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Brown, it is clear that both switches make use of nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material results in a similar sound profile, with both switches producing a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows both switches to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Brown may differ in terms of stem and spring design, their housing materials contribute to a comparable typing experience in terms of acoustics.
Despite the similarities in housing materials, there are some potential differences in the typing experience between the two switches. The placement of the nylon housing within the switch can affect the overall feel and sound when typing. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the Milky Red Pro (KS-3), may have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, emphasizing a more tactile typing experience. Conversely, the top housing of a switch, like the Cherry MX Brown, may influence the sound produced when releasing a key, creating a distinctive sound profile upon key release.
While the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Brown share the same nylon housing material, the overall typing experience may still vary due to differences in design and other components within the switches. However, the use of nylon in both switches contributes to a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Whether it's the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound or the top housing affecting the sound upon key release, the nylon material plays a key role in shaping the overall acoustics of these switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch are quite similar. The Milky Red Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the MX Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of force required for typing. The lighter actuation force of these switches makes them ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it allows for quick and easy keystrokes. However, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the MX Brown may provide a bit more tactile feedback and a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance traveled while typing. Therefore, users can expect comparable results in terms of key travel distance between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Brown switches exhibit a bassy and low-pitched profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is known for its thocky sound, resembling a satisfying "thud" or "knock", the MX Brown is characterized by a more subdued audio feedback, reflecting a quieter typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may provide a more pronounced and tactile auditory response compared to the subtle and gentle sound of the MX Brown.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is lauded for its buttery smooth keystrokes, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches are described as textured, potentially providing a subtle friction when pressed. Some users may appreciate the slight texture of the MX Brown for a different tactile experience, while others might prefer the smoothness of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for a more consistent typing feel.
Overall, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) emphasizes a more pronounced thocky sound and a buttery smooth keystroke, the MX Brown provides a quieter typing experience with a subtle tactility and potential texture. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, newcomers can explore and experiment with these switches to find the perfect match for their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, selecting between the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the MX Brown will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a low-pitched, thocky sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile experience with a light typing feel and a bassy, low-pitched sound, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch may be the better option for you. Consider your preferences for key press feel, sound profile, and budget when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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