Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are distinct differences that set them apart. The Milky Red Pro is lauded for its smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, offering a buttery smoothness and low-pitched "thock" sound that is satisfying to many users. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers boast a shorter activation and long pole stem that contributes to a great typing feel, along with a creamy sound signature. While the Milky Red Pro is characterized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', and 'Thocky', the Splash Brothers is described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique attributes that cater to different preferences, making them both appealing choices depending on your typing style. 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
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Jwick Splash Brothers both offer unique housing materials with the Milky Red Pro featuring a nylon top housing and bottom housing, while the Splash Brothers utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material in the Milky Red Pro creates a softer and more absorbent sound profile, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate material in the Splash Brothers produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. While both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, the difference in the top housing material greatly influences the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate material in the top housing of the Jwick Splash Brothers allows for a clear housing that is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting. This transparency adds a visually appealing element to the switch, making it stand out for users who prioritize customization and lighting effects. On the other hand, the opaque nylon material used in both the top and bottom housing of the Gateron Milky Red Pro maintains a classic and understated appearance, focusing more on the sound profile and typing experience rather than visual aesthetics. While both switches offer different housing materials that cater to different preferences, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile from typing on switches with nylon housing material.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Jwick Splash Brothers comes down to personal preferences in sound and aesthetics. The nylon housing in the Milky Red Pro creates a softer and more absorbent sound profile, while the polycarbonate housing in the Splash Brothers produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the transparent nature of the polycarbonate housing in the Splash Brothers allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the typing experience. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials, catering to users with different preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it becomes evident that the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is lighter overall. 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. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 48 grams, indicating that it is lighter than the Milky Red Pro. In terms of preference, those who enjoy a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Splash Brothers, as it requires less force to bottom out. However, individuals seeking a bit more resistance may prefer the Milky Red Pro for its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional length compared to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches offer a decent amount of travel for typing and gaming purposes, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a slightly longer travel distance than the Jwick Splash Brothers. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Splash Brothers, while those who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the 4 mm travel distance of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3). Overall, both switches offer a comfortable travel distance for different preferences.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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) switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile with a satisfying thocky sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches are described as having a creamy sound signature and being neutral in terms of sound profile. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Milky Red Pro switches will give a more bass-heavy and thocky sound experience compared to the neutral and creamy sound of the Splash Brothers switches.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches are often praised for their buttery smoothness, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches are described as mild and snappy, offering a gentle typing experience with a responsive and lively feel. Additionally, the Splash Brothers switches are noted to be bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation. Both switches offer different typing experiences, with the Milky Red Pro switches being smoother and more uniform, while the Splash Brothers switches offer a more gentle and snappy feel.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches provide distinct sound and feel qualities for typing enthusiasts. While the Milky Red Pro switches offer a bassy and thocky sound with a buttery smooth typing experience, the Splash Brothers switches provide a creamy and neutral sound signature with a mild and snappy feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing sensation, users can choose between these two switches to customize their mechanical keyboard experience for optimal performance and comfort.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile that offers a buttery typing experience, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a neutral sound profile that provides a mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished typing experience, the Splash Brothers might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what feels most comfortable to you.
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