Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, you are met with distinct qualities that cater to individual preferences. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, offering a buttery smooth keystroke and a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Quinn switch stands out for its crisp and light tactile feedback, accompanied by a deep, resonant sound profile. While the Milky Red Pro provides a comforting typing sensation with its linear design, the Quinn switch adds an extra layer of character to each keystroke with its tactile bump. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Quinn, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The use of nylon in both switches creates a duller and rounder sound overall, providing a unique typing experience for users.
While both the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Quinn share the same nylon material for their housing, the impact of the housing material differs between the top and bottom components of the switches. The bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when a key is released. This distinction showcases how the design and placement of housing materials can influence the overall typing experience, even when using the same material like nylon for both top and bottom housings.
In conclusion, the similarities in housing materials between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Quinn highlight a consistent approach to creating a deeper and fuller sound profile through the use of nylon. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience that is characterized by the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs sound and creates a distinct sound profile. The differentiation in the impact of housing material between the top and bottom components further emphasizes the importance of thoughtful design in determining the overall typing feel and sound of a switch.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams. Both switches have a medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams and a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, respectively. The lighter actuation force of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) makes it easier to type for longer periods of time, which is ideal for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Quinn provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the Gateron Quinn tactile switch at 3.4 mm. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper press compared to the Quinn. Gamers may lean towards the shorter travel distance of the Quinn for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantive key press may prefer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3). Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of 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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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) linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer a bassy and low-pitched profile. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) produces a thocky sound, giving a deep and satisfying thud-like experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a clacky and resonant sound, providing a sharp and immersive typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and the keyboard setup, users can enjoy a rich and characterful sound profile with either switch.
In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This provides users with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the contrary, the Gateron Quinn switch offers a snappy, polished, bouncy, and accented feel. Users can expect a responsive, smooth, lively, and tactile feedback from each key press. The different tactile properties of these switches cater to a variety of typing preferences, from those who prefer a softer touch to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump.
Overall, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience. Whether you prefer a buttery smooth linear switch or a crisp and tactile switch, Gateron offers options that suit a range of preferences. Additionally, the sound and feel profiles can be further enhanced or customized based on factors such as the keyboard chassis, keycap material, and lubing techniques. In conclusion, users can expect a satisfying and personalized typing experience with either of these Gateron switches.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) if you prefer a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams. These switches offer a buttery smooth keystroke and a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, go for the Quinn if you enjoy a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams. The Quinn switches provide a precise tactile bump and a rich auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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