Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are various factors to consider. One popular choice is the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), a linear switch known for its smooth and affordable typing experience. These budget-friendly switches offer a buttery smoothness and a low-pitched "thock" sound that is pleasing to the ears. On the other hand, we have the Outemu Green, a clicky switch that provides a tactile feedback with a satisfying click sound. While the Milky Red Pro excels in providing a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Outemu Green stands out for its tactile feedback and audible click. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
Standard
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 terms of housing materials, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Green has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Green's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing still contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. Therefore, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a more consistent sound experience compared to the Outemu Green's mix of housing materials.
Despite the difference in housing materials between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Green, both switches share the benefits of using nylon in their housing. Typing on switches with nylon housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This commonality means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Outemu Green, even though the Green's polycarbonate top housing may contribute to a slightly different sound profile compared to the Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s all-nylon housing.
When it comes to the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) showcases how the choice of material for both the top and bottom housings can result in a consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Green's mix of polycarbonate and nylon housings may lead to a more varied sound experience, with the top housing influencing the sound upon key release and the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing, making it important for users to consider their preferences when selecting a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro is lighter in both aspects compared to the Green switch. The Milky Red Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch has a higher actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, offering a heavier and more substantial typing feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of use, the Milky Red Pro would be the ideal choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more robust typing experience, the Outemu Green switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the key travel a total distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Despite having the same travel distance, the feel of the keypress may be different due to the linear nature of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch compared to the clicky feel of the Outemu Green switch. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is the same, but the tactile feedback during use may vary.
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 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 best known for its smooth keystrokes and low-pitched "thock" sound, giving users a buttery smooth typing experience with a bassy and satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch does not have any specific sound or feel descriptors available. When it comes to sound, the Milky Red Pro offers a deep and rich sound with a satisfying thocky noise, while the feel of the switch is described as buttery, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Overall, the Milky Red Pro switch seems to excel in both sound and feel categories, offering a budget-friendly option for those looking for a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. If you are looking for a similar typing experience with the Outemu Green switch, you may expect a different sound and feel profile based on your personal preferences and the other components of your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch or the Outemu Green clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing needs. If you value a medium-light bottom out force and prefer a smooth, buttery keystroke with a low-pitched "thock" sound, then the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and enjoy a clicky typing experience, the Outemu Green switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Remember to consider factors such as typing style, noise preference, and desired feel when making your decision between these two switches.
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