Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Blue Jade 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 Jade offer different experiences for users. The Milky Red Pro is a linear switch that is praised for its smooth and affordable typing experience. With a buttery smooth keystroke and a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound, these budget-friendly switches are perfect for those who prioritize a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade is a clicky switch that provides a tactile feedback with an audible click sound. While the Milky Red Pro is known for its buttery and bassy feel, the Blue Jade switch offers a satisfying click with each keystroke. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Blue Jade switches utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom housings. This classic switch housing material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon's relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The similarity in housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, the differences lie in the color and aesthetic design of the switches' housing. The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a milky red color for its housing, giving it a unique and eye-catching appearance. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade switch is characterized by a blue color for its housing, adding a pop of color to any keyboard. These visual distinctions allow users to choose a switch that not only suits their typing preferences but also complements the overall look of their keyboard setup.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Blue Jade switches may come down to personal preference in terms of color and design. Both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their shared nylon housing material, providing a deep and full sound profile when typing. Whether you prefer the milky red housing of the Gateron switch or the blue housing of the Outemu switch, both options promise a satisfying typing experience with a unique aesthetic appeal.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Blue Jade. The Milky Red Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it medium-light in terms of force required. On the other hand, the Blue Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. The actuation force of a switch is crucial in determining the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the amount of force required to press the key all the way down. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Milky Red Pro would be a suitable choice. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the heavier force of the Blue Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Despite both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch having a travel distance of 4 mm, they offer different typing experiences. The Milky Red Pro provides a smooth linear feel with no tactile bump or audible click, making it ideal for fast and quiet typing. On the other hand, the Blue Jade switch has a satisfying tactile bump and a loud click, which can enhance typing feedback and accuracy. Overall, while both switches have the same travel distance, the Milky Red Pro is better suited for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Blue Jade is more geared towards users who enjoy a tactile and audible typing feedback.
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 Jade 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a satisfying deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have specific sound descriptors provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is described as offering a buttery typing experience, suggesting a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that is seamless and effortless. Unfortunately, there are no specific feel descriptors available for the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch.
In conclusion, while the subjective qualities of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch are described in detail, information about the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is lacking in terms of both sound and feel. If the feel is similar to the buttery smoothness of the Milky Red Pro, then users may expect a comparable typing experience. However, without specific descriptors, it is harder to directly compare the two switches. Ultimately, personal preference, typing style, and intended use will play a significant role in determining which switch is the better fit for each individual.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, then the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and clicky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Outemu Blue Jade switch would be a better fit. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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