Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, there are key differences to consider. The Milky Red Pro is renowned for its smooth and affordable typing experience, offering buttery-smooth keystrokes and a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch doesn't have a specific standout feature mentioned but is categorized as a tactile switch, which generally provides a tactile bump for tactile feedback during typing. While the Milky Red Pro may appeal to those seeking a budget-friendly linear switch with a comfortable typing experience, the Crystal Brown could be preferred by users who enjoy the tactile feedback of a switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
55g
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
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 Crystal Brown, one key difference lies in their top housing materials. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown boasts a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic nature. This contrast in materials leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing on these switches, with the Milky Red Pro offering a duller and rounder sound while the Crystal Brown produces a more clear and resonant sound.
Despite their differences in top housing materials, both switches share a common ground in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics for a duller and rounder auditory experience. By utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, both the Milky Red Pro and the Crystal Brown can deliver a similar typing sensation in terms of sound and feel. Even though the switches may differ in their top housing materials, the consistent use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a comparable typing experience regardless of the switch being used.
When examining how the different housing materials impact the overall typing experience, it is important to consider the split between the top and bottom housings. The qualities of each housing material manifest themselves differently when pressing down and releasing a key. The bottom housing material has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound when letting go of a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material in different parts of the switch can influence the overall typing experience, showcasing the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials in switch design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, which means they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Crystal Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making the Crystal Brown slightly heavier to press all the way down. This difference may result in a slightly more substantial typing experience with the Crystal Brown switch compared to the Milky Red Pro (KS-3). For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be the preferred choice, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes may lean towards the Outemu Crystal Brown. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch are equal, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience and feel of the switches will be similar in terms of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key press feel and overall typing 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 Outemu Crystal Brown 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
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, offering a pleasing and smooth typing experience with a buttery feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has no available information regarding its sound and feel qualities. Based on the information provided, it can be inferred that the Milky Red Pro switch offers a deeper and richer sound with a smooth keystroke, while the Crystal Brown switch remains unknown in these aspects. If one prefers a budget-friendly switch with a bassy and thocky sound paired with a buttery feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be the recommended choice. Alternatively, if information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch becomes available, a more informed comparison can be made.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a different sound and feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and budget. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and needs.
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