Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Milk Blue. The Gateron Milky Red Pro is a linear switch known for its smooth and affordable typing experience, offering buttery keystrokes and a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue is a clicky switch, providing a distinct tactile feedback and audible click with each key press. While the Milky Red Pro excels in a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Milk Blue offers a satisfyingly tactile and audible 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
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Milk Blue, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. However, the top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is made of nylon, while the Milk Blue features a polycarbonate top housing. This results in a difference in sound profile, with the Milky Red Pro offering a duller and rounder sound, while the Milk Blue produces a sharper and crisper sound.
While both the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Milk Blue share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, they differ in their top housing materials. The Milky Red Pro utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Milk Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Aesthetically, the Milk Blue's clear polycarbonate housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the switch that the Milky Red Pro may not offer.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Milk Blue will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While both switches offer a deep and full sound profile with their nylon bottom housings, the difference in top housing materials creates distinct differences in sound quality. The Milky Red Pro's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, whereas the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the Milk Blue's clear housing allows for RGB lighting, which may be a deciding factor for those looking to add a visual element to their keyboard setup.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Milky Red Pro is slightly heavier at 52 grams, while the bottom out force of the Milk Blue is unknown. The actuation force of the Milky Red Pro is lighter, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, the Milk Blue may provide a stronger push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, it is difficult to determine which switch is heavier without information on the Milk Blue. If both switches have the same bottom out force, then users can expect similar results in their typing experience in that aspect. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference, with some opting for a lighter actuation force for extended use and others preferring a heavier force for a more pronounced typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience for users in terms of the distance traveled when pressing down on a key. However, it is worth noting that the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Milk Blue switches have different tactile characteristics due to being linear and clicky switches, respectively. Despite this difference, users can expect to experience a consistent travel distance from top to bottom with either switch.
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 Milk Blue 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 renowned for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics that provide a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is unavailable. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is praised for its buttery smooth keystrokes that offer a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Unfortunately, details on the tactile feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch are not provided. However, based on the available information, it can be inferred that the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch may provide a smoother typing experience compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch stands out for its smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a deep, rich sound profile. While information on the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is limited, it is important to consider personal preferences and factors such as sound, feel, price, and switch type when choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your needs. Both switches have their own unique qualities, so it's recommended to try them out in person if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, you should choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that provides a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams. On the other hand, you should opt for the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch if you are looking for a clicky switch with an unknown bottom out force. The Milk Blue switch may be a good choice if you enjoy a clicky typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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