Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Smoothie 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 Gateron Smoothie are two popular options worth considering. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its smooth and affordable typing experience, providing users with buttery smooth keystrokes and a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its all-POM construction, delivering a thocky sound signature, exceptional smoothness, and a lightweight touch. Both switches are categorized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched', but the Smoothie offers additional qualities like 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Smoothie, we see that both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a unique and relatively muted sound that leans towards the deeper side. This difference in top housing material leads to distinct sound profiles for each switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) also incorporates a nylon material, which contributes to the switch's deeper and fuller sound profile. As with the top housing, the softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Smoothie utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also influences the switch's sound profile by adding to its deeper and more muted characteristics. Both switches benefit from the unique properties of their bottom housings, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Smoothie switches. While both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities of nylon and POM are reflected in their respective sound profiles. Whether it's the deeper and fuller sound of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with its nylon housing or the pleasing and unique sound of the Smoothie with its POM housing, users can expect distinct typing experiences based on the housing materials chosen for each switch.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro requires 52 grams while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. The Milky Red Pro can be considered medium-light in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, providing a balance between typing comfort and feedback. On the other hand, the Smoothie's lighter actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we can see that the Milky Red Pro has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Milky Red Pro's travel distance is longer, making it a bit more traditional in comparison to the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie. Gamers may prefer the Smoothie for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Milky Red Pro. Overall, both switches offer different travel distances catered to individual preferences, ensuring that users can select the one that best suits their typing or gaming needs.
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 Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch both offer a thocky sound signature, with the Milky Red Pro producing a bassier and lower-pitched sound compared to the Smoothie, which is slightly more subdued in terms of sound. When it comes to feel, both switches are described as providing a buttery typing experience, with the Milky Red Pro being characterized solely as buttery, and the Smoothie offering a creamy and silky typing sensation in addition to being buttery. This suggests that both switches prioritize smoothness and fluidity in typing.
Overall, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Smoothie linear switches offer a similar thocky sound profile, with the Milky Red Pro delivering a slightly bassier sound and the Smoothie having a more subdued quality. In terms of feel, both switches provide a buttery typing experience, but the Smoothie goes a step further by offering a creamy and silky sensation. Therefore, if you enjoy a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a thocky sound, you can expect similar results from either switch, with the Smoothie potentially providing a more luxurious typing feel due to its creamy and silky attributes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Smoothie linear switches, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a low-pitched, thocky sound with a buttery typing feel. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option with a smooth and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, choose the Gateron Smoothie if you desire a switch with a unique sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. The Smoothie offers a thocky sound with a smooth, creamy, and silky typing feel, making it a great option for those looking for a switch that shatters the price barrier without compromising on quality. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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