Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer unique benefits to users. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its smooth and budget-friendly linear switches that provide a buttery typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver is known for its all-POM construction, short travel distance for quick actuation, and feather-light touch. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a satisfying typing experience with a focus on smoothness and affordability, the Smoothie Silver emphasizes speed and quick actuation. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Silver, both switches feature unique properties in their housing materials. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver incorporates a POM top housing, creating a pleasing and unique sound that is deep and relatively muted. While both materials provide distinct sound profiles, the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may offer a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver.
Furthermore, when examining the bottom housing materials of these switches, the qualities imparted by the nylon bottom housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver continue to showcase their individual characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its effect on the top housing. Conversely, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver adds to its unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. These bottom housings impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, highlighting their importance in the overall typing experience.
In situations where the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, such as with the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Smoothie Silver, it is important to consider how each housing material influences the sound and feel of the switch. While the top housing may have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Despite the differences in housing materials between these two switches, both the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Smoothie Silver offer unique sound profiles that cater to individual preferences and typing styles.
Weight
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light and responsive typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro requires 52 grams, giving it a slightly heavier feel compared to the Smoothie Silver, which has an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Smoothie Silver for extended typing sessions, while users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and user preference for each switch model.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Smoothie Silver. This means that the Milky Red Pro offers a slightly deeper key press experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver provides a slightly shorter travel distance, making it potentially more appealing to gamers seeking quicker response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Milky Red Pro being on the longer side and the Smoothie Silver on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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 is renowned for its smooth keystrokes that evoke a buttery feel, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience. Paired with a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound, these switches offer a deep and rich sound profile during key presses, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch boasts a short travel distance for lightning-fast actuation, resulting in unparalleled smoothness and a feather-light touch. While the sound qualities of the Smoothie Silver switches are not specified, both switches are likely to offer a similar level of smoothness thanks to their linear design. Ultimately, the choice between the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Smoothie Silver switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel for your desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider your typing preference and environment. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a smooth typing experience and a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize lightning-fast actuation, a feather-light touch, and a thocky sound, the Smoothie Silver might be the better option for you. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels best for your typing style.
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