Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Bsun Olive switches. The Milky Red Pro is a linear switch known for its budget-friendly price and smooth typing experience, offering a buttery smooth feel and a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switches stand out for their tactile feedback and deep, resonant sound, thanks to their unique design and POM housings. While the Milky Red Pro provides a smooth and affordable typing experience, the Bsun Olive switches offer a satisfying tactile feel and a distinct auditory experience. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive features a POM top and bottom housing, resulting in a unique and pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. While both switches aim to provide a high-quality typing experience, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of each keystroke.
In terms of sound characteristics, the nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) absorbs more sound compared to the POM housing of the Bsun Olive. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile for the Gateron switch, while the Bsun switch produces a relatively more muted sound with a deeper tone. The difference in sound quality between the two switches can impact the overall typing experience, catering to different preferences for those who value sound feedback when typing.
While the nylon and POM housing materials offer distinct sound profiles, both switches ultimately aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on bottom-out sound and feel, are more prominent in the overall typing experience of the switch. However, the top housing still plays a significant role in shaping the sound when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of both housing materials in creating a well-rounded switch design. Ultimately, whether using the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Bsun Olive, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles influenced by the choice of housing material.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Milky Red Pro requires 52 grams, while the Olive needs 65 grams. This makes the Olive switch heavier when it comes to fully pressing a key. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Milky Red Pro may be the better option. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the heavier bottom out force of the Bsun Olive to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Milky Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Olive switch. The Milky Red Pro's 4 mm travel distance is more in line with traditional switch distances, while the Olive's 3.4 mm distance is on the shallower end. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Olive for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is best known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and satisfying sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch offers a resonant, deep sound due to its all-POM housings, creating a distinct auditory experience that sets it apart. Both switches offer a unique sound experience, with the Milky Red Pro focusing on a lower frequency range and the Olive delivering a rich, deep sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is praised for its buttery smoothness, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation. In contrast, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a pronounced tactile feedback with a crisp and sharp bottom-out. While the Milky Red Pro emphasizes a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, the Olive offers a more tactile and responsive typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch provide different but equally satisfying typing experiences. The Milky Red Pro offers a smooth and affordable option with a focus on smooth keystrokes and a low-pitched, thocky sound. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switch stands out with its medium weight, pronounced tactile feedback, and deep resonant sound. Whether you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience or a tactile, invigorating feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual user's preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and pronounced feedback with a crisper bottom-out feel and a medium-heavy actuation force, the Bsun Olive switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, it's all about personal preference and finding the switch that best complements your typing style and needs.
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