Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Piano mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are some key differences that make each switch unique. The Gateron Milky Red Pro is known for its smooth and affordable typing experience, offering a buttery smoothness and a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out for its proprietary material blend, providing a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature. While the Milky Red Pro is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', the Piano is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Piano both feature top housings made of proprietary materials that aim to enhance the sound profile of the switch. The Milky Red Pro uses a nylon top housing, known for its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Similarly, the Piano utilizes a POM blend top housing, which offers a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. Both switches prioritize creating a smooth and pleasant typing experience through their top housing materials.
In terms of bottom housings, the Milky Red Pro and the Piano once again share similar qualities in their material composition. The Milky Red Pro uses a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to create a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties. The Piano features a proprietary POM blend bottom housing, also designed to provide a satisfying and deep sound profile. These bottom housings play a crucial role in impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, contributing to the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Piano may differ in the specific materials used for their top and bottom housings, both switches aim to provide users with a premium typing experience through the unique sound profiles created by their respective housing materials. Whether it be the nylon top and bottom housings of the Milky Red Pro or the POM blend top and bottom housings of the Piano, users can expect similarly satisfying and deep sound profiles that enhance the overall typing feel and sound of their keyboards.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Milky Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes compared to the Piano, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro requires 52 grams to fully press the key, while the Piano demands a heavier 63.5 grams. This means that the Milky Red Pro offers a more lightweight typing experience, suitable for prolonged use, while the Piano provides a more substantial and tactile feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Piano linear switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The 4 mm travel distance on both switches provides users with a consistent typing experience, allowing for smooth and precise key presses. With the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and overall typing performance when using either switch. Whether you opt for the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Durock Piano linear switch, you can enjoy a comfortable typing experience with a 4 mm 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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Piano switches are described as having a bassy tone, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. The Milky Red Pro is also noted for its thocky sound, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory experience, while the Piano switch focuses on a deep, creamy sound signature. Ultimately, both switches deliver a pleasant sound experience, with the Milky Red Pro offering a low-pitched "thock" and the Piano providing a smooth and creamy sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is known for its buttery sensation, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that promotes seamless and effortless typing. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch is described as frictionless and silky, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing feel, with the Milky Red Pro emphasizing a buttery touch and the Piano focusing on a frictionless and silky keystroke.
Overall, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Piano switches may have slight differences in sound and feel, they both offer a smooth and pleasant typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the deep, bassy thock of the Milky Red Pro or the smooth, creamy sound of the Piano, both switches excel in providing an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch or the Durock Piano linear switch, you should take into account the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel of each switch. Opt for the Milky Red Pro if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, choose the Durock Piano if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and value a gliding push feel with a deep, creamy sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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