Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Silent Ink Black 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 Gateron Silent Ink Black mechanical keyboard switches, you are faced with two linear switch options that cater to different preferences. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its smooth and affordable typing experience, offering buttery keystrokes and a satisfying low-pitched “thock” sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is preferred for its silenced typing experience, providing a cushiony bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) excels in providing a buttery and bassy typing experience, the Silent Ink Black offers a more muted and polished typing experience. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, it is evident that both switches have unique qualities that contribute to their sound profiles. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both switches offer distinctive sound profiles, the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro and the INK blend top housing of the Silent Ink Black create different auditory experiences for users.
Additionally, the bottom housing materials of the two switches also play a significant role in their overall sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Milky Red Pro contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing characteristics. Conversely, the INK blend bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black is noted for its high-pitched sound profile that is satisfying and clacky. This difference in bottom housing materials further distinguishes the sound profiles of the two switches, catering to different preferences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Although the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Silent Ink Black offer unique sound profiles, the overall typing experience may vary depending on individual preference. While the Milky Red Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon top and bottom housings, the Silent Ink Black offers a high-pitched and clacky sound profile with its proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings. Ultimately, users can enjoy similar results in terms of sound quality but with different characteristics based on the housing materials chosen for their switches.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro requires 52 grams to bottom out, while the Silent Ink Black needs 70 grams, making it the heavier option. The Milky Red Pro provides a medium-light feel, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces, suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Milky Red Pro being lighter and the Silent Ink Black being heavier.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning you will experience a similar keypress feeling with either switch. The travel distance of 4 mm for both switches allows for a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel. Whether you choose the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Silent Ink Black, you can expect a smooth and efficient typing experience with a consistent 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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is best known for its buttery smooth keystrokes and low-pitched, thocky sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience with a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offers a muted sound, perfect for quieter environments, with a cushiony bottom-out feel that minimizes audio feedback. The Milky Red Pro provides a buttery typing sensation, while the Silent Ink Black offers a silky smooth experience with polished key travel. Overall, both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, but both promise a smooth and pleasant typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. Opt for the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) if you prioritize a budget-friendly, smooth typing experience with a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, choose the Silent Ink Black if you need a quieter typing experience with a cushiony bottom-out feel and muted sound. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and budget.
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