Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Dustproof Green offer distinct characteristics to consider. The Milky Red Pro is a linear switch known for its smooth and affordable typing experience, providing a buttery smoothness with a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green is a clicky switch that offers a different typing experience. While the specifics of the Dustproof Green are not provided, clicky switches typically offer a tactile feedback and audible click with each key press. Both switches have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. This results in a more muted and rounder sound when compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. While both switches share this material for the bottom housing, the difference lies in their top housing materials. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, leading to a similar sound profile as the bottom housing, whereas the Dustproof Green features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with greater clarity and resonance.
The nylon bottom housing of both the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Dustproof Green switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. This similarity in material for the bottom housing ensures that users can expect consistent sound and feel characteristics when using either switch. However, the top housings of these switches differ in material, with the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) featuring a nylon top housing and the Dustproof Green having a polycarbonate top housing. This contrast in top housing materials leads to distinct sound profiles, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Green producing a sharper and crisper sound compared to the rounder sound of the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3).
In summary, while both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches share nylon bottom housings that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound, emphasizing the softer nature of the plastic, while the Dustproof Green's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This difference in top housing materials showcases how material composition can significantly impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches, providing users with options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Milky Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it medium-light in comparison. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, classifying it as heavy. Those who prefer lighter switches for longer typing or gaming sessions may opt for the Milky Red Pro, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Green. Despite the differences in force, both switches provide distinct tactile feedback and performance characteristics based on their specific actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing these two switches, it is clear that they offer a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro or the Outemu Dustproof Green, you can expect to get a consistent travel distance when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to other factors such as actuation force, noise level, and overall 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 Dustproof Green 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 known for its smooth keystrokes and low-pitched “thock” sound, providing a buttery typing experience with a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, information about the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch's sound profile is currently unknown. When it comes to feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is described as offering a buttery typing experience, ensuring a seamless and uniform sensation with each keypress. Similarly, information regarding the feel of the Dustproof Green switch is unavailable. Overall, if one were to compare the two based on the available information, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch would provide a smooth and bassy typing experience with a thocky sound, while the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch remains a mystery in terms of both sound and feel. Therefore, if one desires a known smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be the recommended choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, smooth keystrokes, and a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is an excellent choice for a budget-friendly and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch, the Dustproof Green may be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing sensation and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
