Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Haimu Orange Sea both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Milky Red Pro is celebrated for its buttery smooth keystrokes and a satisfying low-pitched “thock” sound, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable yet enjoyable typing experience. Its budget-friendly nature doesn't compromise on performance, providing a delightful tactile feedback that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are known for their impeccable smoothness and neutral sound signature, offering a more straightforward typing feel that many typists might prefer for work and extended typing sessions. While both switches boast linear action, catering to a silent and uninterrupted flow, choosing between the two ultimately depends on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or pure smoothness. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Haimu Orange Sea switches present a compelling study in contrasting housing materials, each contributing unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture which results in a deeper and fuller sound. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea uses a polycarbonate top housing, characterized by its stiffer structure that produces a sharper, crisper sound profile. This fundamental difference highlights the inherent acoustic properties of each material; while the nylon of the Milky Red Pro absorbs sound and generates a mellow auditory experience, the polycarbonate of the Orange Sea enhances clarity and resonance, offering a brighter typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches share a commonality in their construction, featuring nylon as the material of choice. This similarity means that while the top housings diverge in their sound characteristics, both switches will evoke a deeper, fuller auditory experience from the bottom housing. The consistent use of nylon ensures that both the Milky Red Pro and the Orange Sea will deliver a certain level of muted sound quality at the bottom of the keystroke, reminding typists of the warm acoustic ambience nylon can offer. As such, despite the contrast observed in their top housings, the two switches may elicit similar tactile responses during the bottom-out phase due to their identical material composition underneath.
In synthesis, the overall performance and sound profile of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Haimu Orange Sea can be construed as a combination of their individual traits. The nylon bottom housing presents a unified experience with both switches eliciting a comforting depth in tone when bottomed out. Meanwhile, the interplay between the differing top housings produces unique results; the softer nylon top of the Milky Red Pro will resonate more warmly compared to the bright, crystal-clear vocals of the Haimu Orange Sea's polycarbonate top. Hence, users can expect a distinctively different auditory experience and feel based on which switch they choose, affirming that even subtle variations in housing material can significantly affect the entire typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Milky Red Pro has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Orange Sea switch offers a lighter feel with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, classifying it as light. This means that the Orange Sea is the lighter option, making it more suitable for those who prefer a softer touch and longer typing sessions, while the Milky Red Pro, being heavier, may provide that substantial push feel favored by those who appreciate a stronger tactile experience. As a result, users seeking a more effortless typing experience might lean towards the Orange Sea, whereas those looking for a more resistant keystroke may prefer the Milky Red Pro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, there is a distinct difference. The Milky Red Pro features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional lengths favored by enthusiasts who appreciate a deeper and more tactile keypress. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to gamers and those who prefer quicker response times. While both switches provide a satisfying experience, the Milky Red Pro might feel more substantial upon actuation, whereas the Orange Sea could be perceived as more responsive due to its reduced travel. This variance allows users to select a switch that aligns with their typing or gaming preferences, opting for the longer travel of the Milky Red Pro for a heartier feel or the shorter travel of the Orange Sea for swift performance.
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 Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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 the sound profile of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it offers a bassy and thocky tone, producing a deeper, richer auditory experience during keystrokes. This low-pitched sound creates a satisfying acoustics akin to a soft "thud" or a gentle "knock," making each key press feel impactful yet muted enough to avoid being intrusive. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are noted for their neutral sound signature, suggesting that they might not provide as distinct or rich a sound profile as the Milky Red Pro. Their sound quality is likely less pronounced, allowing for a more subdued typing experience, but specific details about their sound characteristics are currently unknown.
Regarding the tactile feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) excels in delivering a buttery smooth typing experience. This seamlessness promotes a fluid keystroke sensation, ensuring that typists can glide from key to key effortlessly. The exact tactile quality of the Haimu Orange Sea switches is also not detailed; however, they are described in general terms as impeccably smooth, implying a potentially comparable typing experience. Without more specifics, it's unclear if there are any distinct differences in feel that would sway a user one way or the other.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches are designed for smooth keystrokes, their sound profiles differ significantly, with the Milky Red Pro providing a rich, thocky experience, and the Orange Sea yielding a more neutral tone. In terms of feel, both switches appear to prioritize smoothness, although the specifics of the Orange Sea's tactile feedback remain unknown. Ultimately, if you gravitate towards auditory richness with a pleasing low pitch, the Milky Red Pro might be your go-to. Alternatively, if you prefer a straightforward, neutral sound, the Haimu Orange Sea could be a fitting choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches depends on your personal preferences regarding typing feel and sound. If you favor a medium-light feel with a bottom out force of 52 grams, and you appreciate the satisfying, deeper "thock" sound that comes with a buttery smooth keystroke, the Milky Red Pro would be the ideal choice for you. Its tonal richness can enhance your typing experience, making it particularly enjoyable for those long typing sessions or when gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of just 45 grams, and desire a consistently smooth feel without the added bassy notes, the Haimu Orange Sea switch might suit you better. This switch is perfect for anyone seeking a neutral sound signature that remains unobtrusive while typing, allowing for an efficient and comfortable typing experience without a pronounced auditory feedback. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you lean towards a more textured, auditory experience with the Milky Red Pro or a lighter, smoother typing feel with the Orange Sea.
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