Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Outemu Silent Green both offer unique features to consider. The Milky Red Pro is praised for its smooth and affordable typing experience, providing a buttery smooth feel with a satisfying low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Silent Green is a linear switch that is known for its silent operation. While the Milky Red Pro offers a budget-friendly option with a distinct sound profile, the Silent Green caters to those seeking a quieter 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
60g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-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 Silent Green, one can see a significant difference in the sound profiles they produce. The Milky Red Pro's nylon top and bottom housing create a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Green's polycarbonate top and bottom housing result in a sharper and crisper sound profile, attributed to the stiffer plastic that produces a more clear and resonant sound. This variation in sound quality can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users depending on their preference for a duller, rounder sound or a sharper, higher-pitched sound.
While the materials used in the housing of the Milky Red Pro and Silent Green switches differ, the impact of these materials on the typing experience is crucial to consider. The nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro creates a more muted and softer typing experience, while the polycarbonate housing of the Silent Green produces a more defined and crisper typing sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate housing can be visually appealing for users who prioritize aesthetics, especially when using RGB lighting. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and overall typing feel.
When it comes to the overall performance of the switches, the different housing materials of the Milky Red Pro and Silent Green can affect both the sound and feel of typing. The softer nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro may result in a more cushioned typing experience, while the stiffer polycarbonate housing of the Silent Green could provide a more precise and responsive feel. It is essential to consider how the top and bottom housing materials interact to create a unique typing experience, as the qualities of each material will impact the sound when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference for sound profile, typing feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, we see that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Milky Red Pro has a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it lighter than the Outemu Silent Green, which has a bottom out force of 60 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Milky Red Pro would be the better option as it allows for extended typing or gaming sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force required for key presses.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of how far you need to press down to register a keystroke. This makes them ideal for users who prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker typing speeds and less finger fatigue. Overall, these switches are suitable for those looking for a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Silent 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a satisfying and deep typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch has unknown sound qualities, making it hard to determine how it compares in terms of acoustics. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Red Pro switch is often described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience that is effortless and uniform. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Silent Green switch, making it difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Overall, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and satisfying sound profile, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch are largely unknown. However, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience accompanied by a low-pitched and satisfying sound, the Milky Red Pro switch would be a great choice. Keep in mind that personal preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, consider the following: If you are looking for a smooth and affordable typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is a great choice. This switch is best known for its buttery smooth keystrokes and low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and are not concerned about sound characteristics, the Silent Green may be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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