Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Tom offer distinct typing experiences. The Milky Red Pro is a linear switch that provides a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, characterized by a buttery feel and a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Tom is a tactile switch that offers a different typing feel compared to the linear Milky Red Pro. While the Milky Red Pro may be favored for its smoothness and affordability, the Tom may be preferred for its tactile feedback. 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
55g
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
3.30 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
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Outemu Tom features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While nylon provides a duller and rounder sound, polycarbonate offers a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, while nylon remains a classic choice for switch housings.
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Tom feature nylon bottom housings, which also contribute to a deep and full sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a dull and round sound. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a similar sound experience regardless of the brand. This consistency in material choice for the bottom housing ensures a uniform sound profile between the two switches, highlighting the importance of the bottom housing in determining the overall typing experience.
When top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities of each housing material are split between the bottom-out and key release sounds and feels. The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Tom showcase how the bottom housing impacts the switch's bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon releasing a key. This division in housing materials highlights how manufacturers can manipulate the typing experience by strategically choosing different materials for the top and bottom housings. In the case of these two switches, the contrast between nylon and polycarbonate demonstrates the varying sound profiles that can be achieved through different housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Tom. The Milky Red Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Tom features a higher actuation force of 55 grams, although the bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force of a switch is crucial in determining the effort required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force needed to fully press the key down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Milky Red Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Tom, given its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Outemu Tom the shorter option compared to the Milky Red Pro. The shorter travel distance of the Outemu Tom may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Milky Red Pro may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 Tom 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
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is praised for its smooth and buttery keystrokes that provide a satisfying typing experience. In terms of sound, it offers a low-pitched "thock" that adds to the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch does not have any specific descriptions regarding sound or feel. While we can assume the Tom switch may provide tactile feedback, it is clear that the Milky Red Pro stands out for its unique sound profile and smooth feel. Both switches may offer different experiences, but if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a low-pitched, bassy sound and buttery feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be an excellent choice. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences in sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, you should consider your preference for a smooth and affordable typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, in which case the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a different sound profile or tactile feedback, the Outemu Tom switch might better suit your needs. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
