Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Blue represent two popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Milky Red Pro is a linear switch that offers a smooth and affordable typing experience, known for its buttery smooth keystrokes and low-pitched thock sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that provides tactile feedback with a satisfying click sound. While the Milky Red Pro is categorized as smooth, bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, the Outemu Blue does not have a specific categorization provided. Each switch has its own unique benefits, with the Milky Red Pro offering a smooth and quiet typing experience, and the Outemu Blue providing satisfying tactile feedback and an audible click. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Blue, we can see a clear distinction in the materials used. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. While both materials have their own unique qualities, it is evident that the choice of housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the two switches, both the Milky Red Pro and the Outemu Blue employ nylon as the material of choice. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. With the bottom housing having more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, it's clear that the nylon material used in both switches plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. Despite other differences in their housing materials, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar sound profile for both switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Blue can significantly impact the typing experience. While the Milky Red Pro's nylon top and bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Outemu Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Despite these differences, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent sound profile in terms of absorbing sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a stiffer, clearer sound, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force. The Milky Red Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Blue has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, making it difficult to determine which is heavier in that regard. The Milky Red Pro's lighter actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience for extended periods, such as during work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Blue switch may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience they offer, catering to different preferences and needs of keyboard users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent keypress experience in terms of travel distance when using either switch. This similarity allows for a uniform typing feel across both switches, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feedback. Despite the similarities in travel distance, the key difference between the two switches lies in their respective switch types - linear for the Milky Red Pro and clicky for the Outemu Blue. Both switches offer a smooth and consistent feel during typing, with the Milky Red Pro having a shorter actuation force than the Outemu Blue. Overall, users can expect a comparable typing experience with the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Outemu Blue switches due to their identical travel distances.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its smooth and buttery feel with a low-pitched "thock" sound during key presses, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch does not have specific information available regarding its sound and feel characteristics. However, based on the information provided, the user can expect a similar smooth and satisfying typing experience with the Milky Red Pro linear switch compared to the unknown qualities of the Outemu Blue switch. Both switches will likely provide a different typing experience, with the Milky Red Pro offering a smoother feel and a deeper sound profile. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for the user's typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, you should choose the Milky Red Pro if you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound. The Milky Red Pro is best suited for those looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a unique tactile feedback, the Outemu Blue might be more up your alley. Keep in mind that the Blue switch bottom out force information was not available. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and budget.
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