Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Purple RGB each offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Milky Red Pro is celebrated for its smooth, buttery keystrokes and low-pitched “thock” sound, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a seamless typing experience without the interruption of tactile feedback. Ideal for gamers and typists who seek a quiet, fluid motion, this budget-friendly linear switch delivers both comfort and affordability. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch provides a more tactile experience, featuring a refined bump that offers medium resistance. This makes it perfect for those who enjoy feeling each keypress as they type, giving a satisfying and tactile feedback that many prefer for both typing and gaming. While both switches have their unique advantages—smoothness versus tactile feedback—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Purple RGB both feature nylon for their top and bottom housings, which leads to some notable similarities in their overall sound profile and tactile feedback. As a classic material for switch housings, nylon is known for imparting a deeper and fuller sound, resulting from its relatively softer composition. This softness allows the nylon to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, culminating in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, both switch types exhibit similar acoustic characteristics, making them conducive for users seeking a quieter typing environment.
In terms of construction, both the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Purple RGB shares nylon for their bottom housings as well. This consistency in materials across both the top and bottom housings means that the switches will deliver a cohesive sound signature. Each switch's bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and tactile feel when pressed, thus ensuring that users experience comparable sensations when bottoming out on either switch. With nylon present in both components, users can expect a similar impact on the auditory and tactile properties of their typing experience.
However, while the materials themselves are identical, the nuances in design and switch mechanism can lead to differing experiences. Gateron's and Cherry's unique manufacturing and engineering approaches may yield variations in feel and performance despite sharing nylon as a housing material. For example, differences in actuation point, travel distance, and spring tension can contribute to distinct typing experiences. Therefore, while users will find similarities in sound characteristics due to the nylon construction, they may still perceive a divergence in overall performance owing to the underlying mechanics and designs of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch with its actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams to the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, which has the same actuation force of 45 grams but an unspecified bottom out force, we see some similarities and differences. Both switches share the same actuation force, meaning that users will experience a similar resistance when pressing the keys to trigger a keystroke. However, the Gateron switch has a defined bottom out force of 52 grams, which adds a slight heavier sensation when pressing the key all the way down. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB's bottom out force remains unknown, leaving ambiguity in its heavier or lighter feel during full key presses. Generally, the Milky Red Pro switch can be considered slightly heavier due to its defined bottom out force compared to the Cherry MX, whose bottoming out characteristics are unclear. For users who prefer lighter switches for longer typing sessions, the actuation forces for both provide that preference, while those seeking a more substantial push might lean towards the Gateron switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that their key press depth is identical. This similarity indicates that users will experience the same level of key travel when pressing either switch, resulting in a comparable feel and responsiveness. Therefore, if you switch between these two types of switches, you can expect the same tactile feedback and overall typing experience due to their equal travel distance.
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 Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, the Milky Red Pro stands out with its deeper, bassy characteristics. This switch is known for producing a low-pitched “thock” sound that provides a satisfying auditory feedback with each keypress. In contrast, the MX Purple RGB switch does not have a described sound profile in this instance, making it difficult to assess its acoustic qualities directly. However, it’s important to note that the sound produced by either switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, so users with similar setups may find their experiences converge.
In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a buttery smooth keystroke that is both effortless and fluid, providing an enjoyable typing experience. This seamless action is ideal for users who favor linear switches for their lack of tactile bumps. The Cherry MX Purple RGB, while described collaboratively with keyboard enthusiasts, lacks specific detail about its feel in this context. Therefore, one can extrapolate that its tactile nature creates a different experience, likely featuring a discernible bump that differs from the smoothness of the Milky Red Pro. Without explicit details on its tactile feedback, users will need to test the switch personally to ascertain its precise feeling.
In summary, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) excels in providing a smooth, low-pitched acoustic experience along with a highly enjoyable buttery feel that many find appealing for day-to-day use. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Purple RGB, while characterized as tactile, does not have its specific sound or feel detailed here, making it less straightforward to compare directly in those aspects. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, and testing them out in a compatible board may be the best way for users to find what suits them best.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience for extended periods, the Milky Red Pro's buttery keystrokes and pleasing low-pitched thock sound make it an exceptional choice, particularly for gaming or general typing where speed and stealth are key. Conversely, if you're someone who enjoys tactile feedback and the sensation of a pronounced bump during keystrokes, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch will provide that refined tactile experience you’re looking for. While the Gateron switch offers a deeper sound profile, the MX Purple switch focuses more on a satisfying tactile response, catering to typists who thrive on that sensation. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prefer the smoothness and quietness of the Milky Red Pro or the tactile input and feedback of the Cherry MX Purple RGB, aligning your choice with your specific typing style and environment.
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