Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the linear switches of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), you have two excellent options to consider. The Milky Red Pro is celebrated for its smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, offering a buttery smooth keystroke and a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine stands out for its resonant and clacky notes, accompanied by an impeccable factory lube job that ensures silky smooth keystrokes. While the Milky Red Pro is characterized by a 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched' profile, the Strawberry Wine is known for its 'Clacky', 'Resonant', 'Silky', and 'High-pitched' attributes. Both switches have their own unique strengths, so choosing between them will ultimately depend on your personal preference and 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) feature nylon top housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material in both switches is softer compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that is satisfying to many typists. However, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a unique sound that is slightly more muted compared to the Milky Red Pro (KS-3), giving it a distinct appeal for users looking for a different typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Strawberry Wine (V2) feature nylon, which also contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile of these switches. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a more rounded sound when typing. While both switches share this characteristic in their bottom housings, the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel may vary slightly due to other factors such as the stem design or lubrication used in the switches.
Overall, users can expect a similar sound profile and typing experience when using both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) due to the shared nylon top and bottom housing materials. The differences in sound and feel may be subtle, but those looking for a more muted typing experience may prefer the Strawberry Wine (V2), while those seeking a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Milky Red Pro (KS-3). Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and the specific sound profile that each user finds most appealing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Milky Red Pro has a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Strawberry Wine, which has a bottom out force of 50 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Strawberry Wine would be the better option due to its lower bottom out force. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro would be ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance and a more substantial typing feel. In terms of weight, the Milky Red Pro falls into the medium-light category while the Strawberry Wine is considered light. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Milky Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Strawberry Wine. This means that the Milky Red Pro will require a slightly deeper press before actuation compared to the Strawberry Wine. Gamers who prefer faster response times may opt for the Strawberry Wine with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more tactile feel may prefer the deeper press of the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience one is looking for.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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 is best characterized by its bassy and low-pitched thocky sound profile, giving off a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant notes, providing a sharp and crisp sound with a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Milky Red Pro leaning towards a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Strawberry Wine delivers a bright and percussive sound.
In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. Conversely, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that reduces resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches prioritize smoothness in their keystrokes, enhancing the overall typing feel and ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offer differing sound and feel profiles that appeal to varying preferences. While the Milky Red Pro excels in providing a buttery and low-pitched thocky sound paired with a smooth and uniform typing sensation, the Strawberry Wine stands out with its clacky and resonant notes, offering a sharp and silky typing experience. Both switches showcase unique qualities that make them suitable for different typing styles and preferences, ensuring that users can achieve satisfying results based on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a smooth typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a more resonant and clacky sound with impeccable factory lube for a silky smooth typing experience, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback.
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