Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Durock T1 are two popular options to consider. The Milky Red Pro is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes that offer a buttery typing experience at an affordable price. With a low-pitched "thock" sound, this switch is perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch that provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump when pressing down. Its sound is likened to rain falling on a window, making it a calming choice for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback. While the Milky Red Pro offers a smooth and budget-friendly option, the Durock T1 provides a comfortable and more tactile typing experience. 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
67g
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
Standard
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
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Durock T1 both have nylon bottom housings, which means that they will both elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, while the T1 boasts a polycarbonate top housing. This key difference means that the T1 will have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Milky Red Pro (KS-3). Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the T1 allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch that the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may not have.
Both switches share the nylon bottom housing material, which contributes to their similar deep and full sound profiles when typing. This means that whether you choose the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Durock T1, you can expect a similar sound experience when pressing down on the keys. However, the choice of top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The polycarbonate top housing of the T1 creates a clearer and more resonant sound profile, especially when compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3). Ultimately, the decision between these switches may come down to whether you prefer a crisper sound with RGB lighting capabilities (T1) or a softer sound without the visual flair (Milky Red Pro (KS-3)).
In terms of impact on typing experience, the bottom housing material of a switch has more influence on the sound and feel when bottoming out a key, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. With the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) featuring a nylon top and bottom housing, the typing experience will lean towards a duller and rounder sound profile both when pressing down and releasing keys. On the other hand, the Durock T1's combination of a nylon bottom housing and a polycarbonate top housing will provide a more varied sound experience - crisp and sharp when typing, with the added visual appeal of RGB lighting shining through. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetic preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock T1 tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a lighter force of 52 grams while the T1 has a heavier force of 67 grams. This means that the T1 switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile response. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch provides a smoother and lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience and feel of both switches will be similar in terms of travel distance, providing consistent performance for users who prefer either linear or tactile switches. Overall, the travel distance of both switches offers a standard typing experience without any significant differences between the two options.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 known for its deep and rich bassy sound profile, offering a satisfying low-pitched thock with each key press. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch produces a more neutral and low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, providing a moderate sound profile suitable for various typing environments. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, with the Milky Red Pro delivering a bass-heavy thock and the T1 offering a gentler rain-like sound.
In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is famous for its buttery smooth keystrokes, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation that is effortless and fluid. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped, accented, and polished typing experience, providing a moderate tactile feedback with distinct stages in the keystroke process and a smooth, refined finish for reduced friction and enhanced key travel. While the Milky Red Pro emphasizes a buttery smooth typing sensation, the T1 offers a more tactile and refined feel with prominent tactility.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Red Pro provides a bassy thock sound and a buttery smooth typing experience, while the T1 delivers a low-pitched rain-like sound and a stepped, accented, and polished feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Whether you choose the Milky Red Pro or the T1, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with each switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a satisfying low-pitched sound profile, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window, the Durock T1 tactile switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize smoothness and affordability or tactile feedback and a unique sound profile in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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