Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry Nixie, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Milky Red Pro is praised for its smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, offering a buttery smoothness accompanied by a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is known for its substantial heft and textured typing feel, incorporating modern innovations while maintaining a traditional touch. Each switch has its own set of qualities, making them appealing options depending on personal 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry Nixie use nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound better than harder plastics. This absorption creates a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of either switch.
Despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, there may still be slight variations in the sound and feel of typing on each switch. This is because the qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. These subtle differences may result in a slightly different typing experience between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry Nixie, even though they share the same housing material.
Ultimately, while there may be minor differences in the typing experience between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry Nixie due to the split qualities of the housing material, the overall result is likely to be quite similar. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the use of nylon, creating a satisfying typing experience for users looking for switches with excellent sound absorption properties. Whether you choose the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Nixie, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with a softer sound profile compared to switches made with harder plastics.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Milky Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. The Milky Red Pro provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Cherry Nixie offers a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a stronger typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the desired weight and feel of the keys.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users can expect a similar travel experience. Neither switch is shorter or longer in terms of travel distance compared to the other, as they both offer the same 4 mm distance. This similarity in travel distance indicates that users can expect consistent feedback and typing feel with either the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Nixie linear 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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 Nixie linear switches are described as producing a deep and satisfying "thocky" sound with low-pitched tones. However, the Milky Red Pro is noted for its additional bassy quality, offering a deeper and richer sound profile compared to the Nixie switch. The choice between the two would ultimately come down to personal preference, with the Milky Red Pro providing a potentially more bass-heavy sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as providing a buttery smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch is noted for its textured feel, which may imply a slightly rougher and more tactile typing experience. Whether you prefer a smoother or more textured feel while typing would again depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
Overall, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Cherry Nixie linear switches offer a smooth typing experience with deep, satisfying thocky sound profiles. While the Milky Red Pro may provide a bassier sound and a buttery feel, the Nixie switch leans towards a more textured typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences in sound and feel, and testing them out in person would be the best way to determine which one suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a medium-light bottom-out force, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the way to go. It offers a buttery keystroke and a low-pitched, thocky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a substantial heft and a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie linear switch, with its heavy 80-gram bottom-out force, may be the better choice for you. Consider your preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing force when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your desired typing experience.
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