Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky V3 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 Dareu Sky V3 both offer distinct advantages for different preferences. The Milky Red Pro switches are praised for their buttery smooth keystrokes and low-pitched "thock" sound, making them a budget-friendly option perfect for those seeking a smooth and affordable typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switches are lauded for their neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, catering to a diverse range of typing preferences with a balance of comfort and precision. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky V3, we see a significant difference in the top housing material. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the contrary, the Sky V3 boasts a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switch.
Interestingly, despite the contrasting top housing materials, both the Milky Red Pro and the Sky V3 share a commonality in their nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Therefore, while the top housing materials may differ between the two switches, the bottom housing material ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky V3 results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the inclusion of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Sky V3 creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Whether opting for a switch with a softer nylon housing for a rounder sound or a stiffer polycarbonate housing for a clearer sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that can cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro is slightly heavier. 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 Sky V3 has an actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Both switches offer a relatively light actuation force, which can be ideal for typing for extended periods or long gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force of the Milky Red Pro may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distances, it can be said that both switches provide similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you can expect a consistent and familiar experience when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to other factors such as actuation force, smoothness, and overall 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 Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 noted for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile that is pleasing to the ears. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is described as having a neutral and subdued sound, offering a more moderate and gentle typing experience. While the Milky Red Pro switch provides a more substantial and satisfying sound, the Sky V3 switch caters to those who prefer a more understated and mellow sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is praised for its buttery smooth keystrokes, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation that is consistent across each keypress. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is characterized as mild, providing a gentler typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Milky Red Pro switch emphasizing smoothness and the Sky V3 switch offering a more approachable feel for a wider range of users.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch each have their own unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milky Red Pro switch delivers a deep and rich sound with a buttery smooth typing experience, while the Sky V3 switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound with a mild typing feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide quality options for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound, then the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound signature and a medium-light weight that offers both comfort and precision, then the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a buttery smooth typing experience with a distinct sound or a more neutral and subdued typing feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
