Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Dustproof Brown offer different experiences for users. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is a linear switch known for its smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, accompanied by a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown falls under the tactile switch category, providing users with a satisfying tactile bump without making much noise. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) boasts a buttery smoothness and bassy sound, the Dustproof Brown offers a more understated typing experience. 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
45g
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
Polycarbonate
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
One key difference between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Dustproof Brown is their top housing materials. The Milky Red Pro uses nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile because of the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. While both materials have their own unique sound characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile.
Another point of comparison between the two switches is their bottom housing materials, which are both made of nylon. This means that both the Milky Red Pro and the Dustproof Brown share similar qualities in terms of the sound profile produced by the bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to the softer plastic's sound-absorbing properties. With this similarity in housing material, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
In terms of overall construction, the choice of housing material for the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Dustproof Brown plays a significant role in the sound profiles they produce. While the Milky Red Pro features a nylon top and bottom housing for a rounded sound profile, the Dustproof Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a crisper sound. The differences in housing materials demonstrate how subtle variations can impact the typing experience and the resulting sound. Ultimately, users may prefer one switch over the other based on their preference for a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, more resonant sound.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a light and smooth keystroke initiation. However, when comparing their bottom out forces, the Milky Red Pro requires 52 grams while the Dustproof Brown needs 65 grams, making the Dustproof Brown the heavier option for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The lighter actuation force of both switches is beneficial for extended typing sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Dustproof Brown provides a more tactile and deliberate typing feel. Overall, choosing between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same for both switches, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance. This similarity allows for consistent tactile feedback and actuation regardless of which switch is chosen. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the two switches, so users can expect a consistent typing experience from either option.
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 Dustproof 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is best known for its deep and rich bass tones, producing a satisfying and low-pitched "thock" sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch's sound profile is unknown. Both switches will provide different auditory experiences due to the characteristics of their design and construction, as well as other external factors like the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is praised for its buttery smooth keystrokes, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is unspecified. While the Milky Red Pro switch will provide a smooth typing experience, the tactile feedback of the Dustproof Brown switch, if any, may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile response during typing.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch excels in providing a smooth and low-pitched sound with a buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the specific sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch are unknown. Choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, typing feel, and potentially tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer their unique qualities, and selecting one over the other will result in different yet satisfactory typing experiences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter actuation force, opt for the Milky Red Pro with its 52 grams bottom out force. This switch is best suited for those looking for a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force, the Dustproof Brown with its 65 grams bottom out force may be the better choice. While lacking in specific sound and feel descriptors, this switch offers a tactile typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force.
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