Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Haimu Neo White. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is a linear switch known for its smooth and affordable typing experience, featuring buttery smooth keystrokes and a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Neo White is also a linear switch but stands out with its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a distinctive typing feel. The use of a Ly stem in the Neo White contributes to a remarkably smooth actuation, making each keystroke a satisfying experience. While the Milky Red Pro is characterized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', the Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that may appeal to different 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Haimu Neo White, we see a stark difference in the materials used. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Neo White boasts a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in materials leads to a distinct difference in the sound produced by the two switches, with the Milky Red Pro offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Neo White's clear and resonant profile.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Milky Red Pro and the Neo White utilize nylon, which is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile for both switches. However, the different top housing materials of nylon and polycarbonate in the two switches still set them apart in terms of the overall sound produced. While the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Haimu Neo White can greatly influence the typing experience and sound produced. The nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro offers a softer and deeper sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Neo White provides a sharper and crisper sound. Despite both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, the contrast in top housing materials results in a noticeable difference in the overall sound. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience and sound characteristics of mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro is lighter with a 45-gram actuation force and 52-gram bottom out force, while the Neo White is slightly heavier with a 58-gram bottom out force. The actuation force for the Neo White is not specified. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the Milky Red Pro may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Neo White provides a slightly heavier feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch reveals that the Milky Red Pro has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Neo White has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Milky Red Pro offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper keypress feel, whereas the Neo White caters to those who prefer a shallower and more responsive typing experience. Gamers, in particular, may lean towards the Neo White for its faster response times due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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 Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its deep and rich bass tones, resulting in a low-pitched "thock" sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and scenarios. The Milky Red Pro switch offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Neo White switch provides a moderate sound that is approachable to most users. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is praised for its buttery smooth keystrokes, offering a seamless and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White switch provides a mild typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. The Milky Red Pro switch delivers a uniform and fluid sensation during typing, while the Neo White switch offers a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing feel, with the Milky Red Pro leaning towards a smoother feel and the Neo White offering a more versatile option for various users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch each have their distinct qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Milky Red Pro switch excels in providing a deep and rich sound profile accompanied by a buttery smooth typing experience, while the Neo White switch offers a more neutral sound and a mild typing sensation. Depending on your preferences and typing style, you can choose between the two switches to achieve a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience. Additionally, these switches, while different in certain aspects, can provide similar results in terms of overall performance and user satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it's important to consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a smoother and more affordable option with a lighter bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a distinctive typing feel and a slightly reduced total travel, the Neo White might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style.
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