Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Cream Pink both offer unique characteristics worth considering. The Milky Red Pro is praised for its smooth and affordable typing experience, with a buttery smoothness to its keystrokes and a satisfying low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Cream Pink's specific qualities are not explicitly stated, leaving room for exploration. While the Milky Red Pro is lauded for being budget-friendly and providing a pleasant typing experience with its 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched' attributes, the Cream Pink's capabilities remain a mystery. 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
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Cream Pink switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, providing a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This quality enhances the overall typing experience by providing a more satisfying and quieter sound while typing on these switches.
While both switches use nylon for their housing materials, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Cream Pink differ in their tactile feel and sound characteristics. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Cream Pink showcasing distinct qualities in this aspect. The top housing, on the other hand, influences the sound produced when a key is released, offering a unique auditory experience based on the switch's design and construction.
In terms of overall performance, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Cream Pink switches with nylon housing materials provide a similar typing experience characterized by a deep and rich sound profile. While the differences in tactile feel and sound production may vary between the two switches, the common use of nylon ensures that users can expect a consistent level of sound absorption and typing comfort. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback and sound aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, we can see that the Milky Red Pro is on the lighter side while the Cream Pink is heavier. The actuation force of the Milky Red Pro is 45 grams, which is lighter than the Cream Pink's 50 grams. The bottom out force of the Milky Red Pro is 52 grams, while the Cream Pink requires 65 grams to bottom out. This means that the Milky Red Pro provides a gentler typing experience with a lower actuation and bottom out force compared to the Cream Pink, which offers a more substantial and firmer typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing feel, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, so you can expect similar results regardless of which one you choose. Whether you prefer the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Outemu Cream Pink, you can rely on their equal travel distance for a smooth typing experience.
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 Cream Pink 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 characteristics, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, depending on the keyboard and keycap setup, it is possible to achieve similar sound profiles with both switches.
In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. Unfortunately, the Outemu Cream Pink switch's feel remains unknown, making it challenging to contrast the two directly in this regard. Nevertheless, both switches are linear switches and are likely to provide a smooth typing experience overall.
Taking into account the information provided, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is praised for its smoothness, affordability, satisfying sound profile, and buttery feel. In contrast, details about the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch's sound and feel are lacking, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, as both switches are linear and may offer similar characteristics, the choice between them may come down to personal preference, budget, and compatibility with other keyboard components. Ultimately, both switches have the potential to provide a pleasant typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, consider opting for the Milky Red Pro if you prioritize a smoother typing experience with a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams. The Milky Red Pro is known for its buttery keystrokes and low-pitched "thock" sound, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Cream Pink may be the better choice for you. However, keep in mind that the Cream Pink does not have as distinctive sound and feel characteristics as the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and budget constraints.
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