Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Red Panda mechanical keyboard switches, it all comes down to your personal preference and typing style. The Milky Red Pro offers a smooth and budget-friendly linear experience, known for its buttery keystrokes and low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Red Panda provides a light-medium amount of tactility, along with a unique raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. While the Milky Red Pro is perfect for those seeking a smooth and affordable typing experience, the Red Panda is ideal for those who enjoy a bit of tactility and a more distinctive sound profile. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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) and the Outemu Red Panda both utilize different materials for their top housing - nylon for the Milky Red Pro and polycarbonate for the Red Panda. The nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Red Panda creates a sharper, crisper sound profile with higher pitches, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While both materials have their own distinct sound qualities, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound profile.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Milky Red Pro and the Red Panda utilize nylon material. This classic switch housing material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the effects of the nylon top housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, both switches may offer slightly different typing experiences based on other factors such as stem design and spring weight.
When it comes to overall typing experience and sound profile, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Outemu Red Panda play a significant role. The split between top and bottom housing materials offers a unique typing experience - the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. While the nylon and polycarbonate materials have their own distinct sound qualities, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience to cater to various preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we see that the Milky Red Pro is lighter in both aspects. 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. In contrast, the Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milky Red Pro, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Red Panda with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is clear that the Red Panda has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Milky Red Pro. The shorter travel distance of the Red Panda may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Milky Red Pro may provide a more substantial key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 deep and rich bass tones, producing a satisfying thock sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a mix of a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound with a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Both switches provide a pleasing auditory experience, with the Milky Red Pro leaning towards a low-pitched thocky sound, while the Red Panda offers a combination of bass and higher-pitched tones.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is described as providing a buttery smooth and fluid typing experience, offering a seamless and uniform sensation with each keystroke. Conversely, the Outemu Red Panda is noted for its mild tactile response, giving users a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. The Milky Red Pro focuses more on delivering a smooth and effortless typing experience, while the Red Panda aims to provide a comfortable and approachable tactile feel.
Overall, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Red Pro delivers a deep and thocky sound alongside a buttery smooth typing experience, while the Red Panda provides a mix of bass and higher-pitched tones with a mild tactile response. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the smoother feel of the Milky Red Pro or the gentle tactility of the Red Panda to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer satisfying performance and are suitable choices for those looking for different sound and feel profiles in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a smooth and affordable typing experience with a medium-light 52-gram bottom out force, opt for the Milky Red Pro (KS-3). These switches are known for their buttery smooth keystrokes and low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light-medium tactility with a 60-gram bottom out force and prefer a raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, the Red Panda may be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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