Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Jwick Taro offer unique typing experiences. The Milky Red Pro is a linear switch that is celebrated for its smooth and budget-friendly typing feel, producing a low-pitched "thock" sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Taro switch is tactile and provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the Milky Red Pro offers a buttery smoothness and bouncy feel, the Taro switch delivers a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility. 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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing and a nylon bottom housing, providing a consistent and deep sound profile when typing. The nylon material absorbs sound effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound that is full and satisfying to the user. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro opts for a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a blend of characteristics. The polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, contrasting with the softer and fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing. This combination may appeal to users looking for a mix of clarity and depth in their typing experience.
While both the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Taro utilize nylon in their bottom housings, their differing top housing materials bring distinct qualities to the typing experience. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile for both switches. However, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a more resonant and clear sound when compared to the Milky Red Pro's nylon top housing. This difference in material results in a noticeable variation in sound profile between the two switches, catering to different preferences in auditory feedback during typing.
In terms of aesthetics and practicality, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing offers transparency for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch when illuminated. This feature may be particularly attractive to users who prioritize customization options and enjoy the visual effects of RGB lighting. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro's opaque nylon top housing focuses more on delivering a specific sound experience rather than visual effects. While both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, users can expect a consistent and satisfying typing experience regardless of the material composition of the housing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is lighter in both aspects. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) 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 Taro has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This difference in weight can significantly impact the typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the substantial feel provided by the heavier forces of the Taro switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Milky Red Pro offers a bit more depth to the keystroke, which some may find more satisfying, while the Taro provides a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Taro for its faster actuation, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer a different feel and experience based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal 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 Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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) linear switch is best known for its low-pitched, bassy, and thocky characteristics, offering a deep and rich sound profile with a satisfying "thock" sound during key presses. In contrast, the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. The sound of both switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Taro switches are described as providing a buttery typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. However, the Taro switch also features a stepped feel, providing a more subtle tactile feedback with distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel stages compared to the Milky Red Pro switch.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is ideal for those seeking a buttery smooth typing experience paired with a rich and bassy sound profile, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a cozy typing experience with medium-level tactility and crisp clacks. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, with the choice between them depending on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a snappy tactility, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for key feel, sound profile, and bottom out force to ensure you have the most enjoyable typing experience possible.
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