Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), a linear switch, and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), a tactile switch, it's important to consider the specific features and benefits of each. The Milky Red Pro is praised for its smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, offering a buttery smoothness and low-pitched "thock" sound that is sure to appeal to many users. On the other hand, the Silent T1 is designed for those looking for a mix of tactility and silence, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium bump and subdued audio feedback, the Silent T1 provides a unique typing experience that combines tactile feedback with a quieter operation. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing 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
N/A
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
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), it is clear that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that when typing on these switches, users can expect a similar experience in terms of sound profile, with nylon's softer properties leading to a deeper and fuller sound that absorbs more noise. However, the top housing materials differ significantly between the two switches, with the Milky Red Pro using nylon and the Silent T1 utilizing polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro.
In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate used in the top housing of the Durock Silent T1 allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it a visually appealing choice for those looking to customize their keyboards. Conversely, the opaque nylon top housing of the Gateron Milky Red Pro may not offer the same level of visual customization options but still provides a satisfying typing experience with its softer sound profile. While both switches share the benefit of nylon bottom housing contributing to a deeper and fuller sound, the different top housing materials will result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and visual aesthetics. Those looking for a deeper and fuller sound with a more muted tone may prefer the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro, while users who prioritize a sharper and crisper sound with enhanced RGB lighting effects may lean towards the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1. Despite these differences, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their shared use of nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Milky Red Pro is also lighter at 52 grams, while the Silent T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Milky Red Pro provides a smoother and lighter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer less resistance when typing or gaming for long periods. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a more substantial push feel, which can be preferred by users who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same distance traveled before bottoming out. This means that the typing feel and feedback will be consistent between the two switches in terms of travel distance. Whether you choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro or the Durock Silent T1, you can expect similar results when it comes to the distance the switch travels during key presses.
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 Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) 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, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile that delivers a deep and rich sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a muted sound that is softer and quieter compared to regular switches. If you prefer a satisfyingly deep sound, the Milky Red Pro is the way to go, while the Silent T1 is perfect for those who value a more subtle and noise-sensitive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) delivers a buttery smooth keystroke experience, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a stepped, accented, and polished feel that offers a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. If you prefer a smooth and fluid typing experience, the Milky Red Pro is the choice for you, while the Silent T1 offers a more structured tactile feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you value a deep and rich sound with a buttery smooth keystroke, the Milky Red Pro is an excellent option. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued sound with a structured and tactile typing feel, the Silent T1 is the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, you would want to choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch if you are looking for a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a buttery keystroke and a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, you would opt for the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch if you desire a tactile switch that is both silenced and ideal for noise-sensitive environments, offering a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel. Make your decision based on the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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