Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Silver

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Outemu Silver both offer unique advantages tailored to different typing preferences, despite being linear switches. The Gateron Milky Red Pro is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, delivering a buttery typing experience while producing a satisfying low-pitched "thock" sound that appeals to many users. This makes it an ideal choice for gamers and typists seeking a responsive yet comforting auditory feedback without excessive noise. On the other hand, while the Outemu Silver lacks prominent characteristics, its straightforward design and performance make it a dependable and often more budget-friendly option. Both switches present solid choices, but their distinct qualities cater to diverse needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) Linear

Outemu Silver Linear

$2.61

$2.30 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Silver switches differ significantly in their housing materials, impacting both the acoustics and characteristics of the keystroke. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon top housing that is well-regarded for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's relatively softer nature, which allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials. In contrast, the Outemu Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a bright auditory experience when typing. The differences in material lead to distinct auditory outcomes, with the Milky Red Pro offering a more muted and rounded sound, while the Outemu Silver provides an elevated, vibrant sound.

As for the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom components, thereby creating a commonality in how they handle the sound profile. The use of nylon in both cases means that when you bottom out during typing, the deep and fuller sound expected from nylon both in the Milky Red Pro and the Outemu Silver will be experienced. This results in a consistent bottoming-out feel and sound, which can be favorable for users who enjoy the cushioning effect of nylon's material properties. Therefore, while the top housings create contrasting sound profiles, the similarity in the bottom housing material helps in merging some aspects of sound production and tactile feedback between the two switches.

Ultimately, the combination of varied top housing materials and similar bottom housings creates a diverse typing experience for each switch. The Milky Red Pro offers a more balanced auditory output with its nylon top, while the Outemu Silver caters to those who might prefer a sharper accentuation due to its polycarbonate housing. However, since both switches share nylon in their base, users of either switch can expect a consistent bottom-out experience that complements their preferred sound profile. By highlighting the differences in top housing materials alongside the shared nylon bottom, users can better choose a switch that aligns with their auditory preferences and typing sensations.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, we see notable differences in their bottom out forces, despite both having the same actuation force of 45 grams. This similarity in actuation force means that users will experience a similar keystroke triggering experience with both switches, making them equally suitable for long typing sessions or gaming scenarios that demand quick responses. However, the bottom out force of the Milky Red Pro is 52 grams, which is notably lighter than the Outemu Silver's 65 grams. This means that while both switches require 45 grams to register a keypress, the Gateron switch is gentler on the fingers when bottoming out, resulting in a more comfortable typing experience for those who favor lighter switches. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Outemu Silver switch may appeal to users seeking a more substantial feel and feedback during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference for lighter or heavier actuation experiences.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that they provide the same tactile experience when pressed. This equal travel distance suggests that users can expect similar feedback and performance from both switches, making them suitable for similar applications in keyboard setups. Since the travel distances of both switches are identical, users looking for a linear switch with consistent key press depth can confidently choose either option without worrying about differences in travel length.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a rich auditory profile characterized by a lower frequency range. Specifically, it produces a deep, thocky sound that can be likened to a satisfying “thud” or a soft “knock” when keys are pressed and released. This bassy quality creates a nice acoustic backdrop that is both fulfilling and pleasant during use. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch has no specific sound characteristics mentioned, leaving a gap in understanding its auditory feedback. Therefore, the Milky Red Pro stands out with its distinctive and enjoyable sound, while the acoustic quality of the Silver remains uncertain.

When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) excels in providing a buttery smooth keystroke experience. Users will notice a seamless and effortless typing sensation, making it ideal for lengthy typing sessions or gaming. The description emphasizes a uniformity in keystrokes that adds to the overall pleasure of use. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch remains unspecified, presenting a similar challenge in gauging its tactile experience. As such, the Milky Red Pro offers clear advantages in this regard, while the Silver’s tactile feedback is unknown.

Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch presents a well-rounded offering with its low-pitched, thocky sound and buttery smooth feel, making it a compelling choice for those seeking an enjoyable typing experience. Meanwhile, the Outemu Silver linear switch lacks specific descriptors for both sound and feel, which leaves potential users without a clear understanding of what to expect. If you're in search of a reliable mechanical switch, the Milky Red Pro offers defined qualities that are likely to satisfy, whereas the Silver's performance in these areas remains ambiguous.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Silver linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you seek. If you favor a smooth, buttery feel with a pleasing, thocky sound, the Milky Red Pro is the ideal choice for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams makes it particularly well-suited for fast-paced gaming or prolonged typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more resistive keystroke and a firmer bottom-out feel, the Outemu Silver—with its heavier 65 grams force—might be the better fit. While it may not have the same distinct sound profile as the Milky Red Pro, it still offers a reliable and precise typing experience that can be particularly satisfying for those who enjoy a more tactile feedback. Ultimately, consider your typing style and sound preferences to make an informed choice that enhances your keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) Linear

$2.61

$2.30 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more