Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the HC Studio Roselle both offer unique characteristics worth considering. The Milky Red Pro is praised for its budget-friendly linear design, providing a smooth and affordable typing experience with a satisfying low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Roselle stands out for its impossibly smooth feel and ethereal wispy sensation, accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. While the Milky Red Pro is described as "buttery" and "bassy", the Roselle is noted for being "frictionless" and "mild". Each switch has its own set of appealing qualities that may suit different preferences and 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the HC Studio Roselle offer unique characteristics that cater to different sound preferences. The Milky Red Pro uses a nylon top housing, which provides a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Roselle features a POM top housing, known for creating a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer a deep and full sound profile, making them suitable choices for those looking for a richer typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Milky Red Pro and Roselle maintain their respective characteristics of nylon and POM. The nylon bottom housing of the Milky Red Pro contributes to the switch's deeper and fuller sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Roselle enhances the switch's overall sound quality with its unique characteristics. These housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, as they impact the bottom-out sound and feel. While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the two switches, they each offer their own benefits in terms of sound quality and typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the HC Studio Roselle showcase the versatility and impact of housing materials on the overall sound profile of mechanical switches. Whether it's the softer and absorbing qualities of nylon in the Milky Red Pro or the pleasing and unique characteristics of POM in the Roselle, both switches offer a deep and full sound experience that caters to various preferences. While the top and bottom housing materials may differ, the switches ultimately deliver similar results in providing a rich and satisfying typing experience for users seeking enhanced sound quality in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it can be seen that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 52 grams, making them equally medium-light in terms of weight. This means that users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke and the feeling of bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming, either of these switches would be suitable. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may want to explore options with heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the HC Studio Roselle would come down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option compared to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Milky Red Pro offers slightly more depth in its travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Roselle switch provides a shorter travel distance, possibly appealing to gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, with the Milky Red Pro being slightly longer and the Roselle being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and what feels more comfortable to the user.
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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the HC Studio Roselle switches are described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. The Milky Red Pro offers a thocky sound, reminiscent of a deep, satisfying thud, while the Roselle has a neutral sound profile suitable for various typing environments. Both switches provide a pleasant auditory experience, with the Milky Red Pro offering a deeper, richer thock sound and the Roselle presenting a more neutral and versatile sound output.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Red Pro switch is known for its buttery and smooth keystrokes, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Roselle switch is described as frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. The Roselle switch also provides a mild typing experience, catering to a wide range of users with its approachable qualities. While the Milky Red Pro emphasizes a buttery smoothness, the Roselle focuses on delivering a frictionless and gentle typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the HC Studio Roselle switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milky Red Pro excels in providing a thocky and buttery typing experience with a bassy sound profile, the Roselle stands out for its neutral sound output and frictionless feel. Depending on personal preference, users can enjoy a smooth and affordable typing experience with the Milky Red Pro or opt for the impossibly smooth and gentle typing experience offered by the Roselle switch. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance and can deliver similar results based on the desired sound and feel preferences of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a smooth and buttery typing experience that produces a pleasing low-pitched sound profile, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an incredibly smooth and wispy typing sensation with a subtle low-pitched sound signature, the HC Studio Roselle might be the ideal switch for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a more buttery feel or a frictionless typing experience, as well as the specific sound characteristics that appeal to you.
Mentioned in this article
