Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Bsun Tomcat, both of which are distinguished linear switches that promise smooth performance. The Milky Red Pro is celebrated for its buttery keystrokes and a low-pitched “thock” sound, making it an ideal choice for typists seeking an affordable yet satisfying experience. Its bassy sound profile adds an auditory delight to the tactile journey, perfect for those who appreciate a subtle auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat offers a similarly smooth feel with its unique Ly stems, which contribute to a resonant sound profile that some users may find particularly gratifying. While both switches provide a soft and linear experience, the distinct acoustic qualities and design features set them apart. 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
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Ly
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 spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Bsun Tomcat present a notable contrast in their impact on sound profiles and aesthetics. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon top housing, which is recognized for its softer and more absorbent qualities. This results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, creating a rounded audio experience that diminishes higher frequencies. On the contrary, the Tomcat employs a polycarbonate top housing that lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate not only enhances the clarity of the sound but also contributes to a more resonant typing experience. This distinction in materials leads to users experiencing different auditory feedback despite both switches aiming for unique tactile outcomes.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Milky Red Pro and the Tomcat share a commonality with nylon. Nylon, as a classic switch housing material, provides a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile regardless of other variables. This creates a similar acoustical foundation in both switches when considering the bottom housing alone, as both materials absorb sound effectively. However, the overall switch experience will still differ due to the varying properties of their top housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Milky Red Pro contributes to its rounded soundscape while the nylon in the Tomcat reinforces this deeper sound, albeit in tandem with the sharper profile introduced by its polycarbonate top.
The interaction between the two different top housings and their shared nylon bottom housing illustrates how each material plays a crucial role in the final typing experience. The nylon of the Milky Red Pro ensures a harmonious and consistent auditory response, while the polycarbonate top of the Tomcat separates sound clarity from acoustic absorption. Consequently, while both switches utilize nylon below for a similar foundational sound, the upper housing materials lead to distinctly different sound profiles during typing. This means that users interested in a balanced, deeper sound might find the Milky Red Pro to their liking, whereas those seeking sharper acoustics and visual appeal via RGB compatibility might prefer the Tomcat.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch exhibit similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, making them equally responsive for typing and gaming. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Milky Red Pro measuring 52 grams while the Tomcat has a bottom out force of 54 grams. This indicates that the Tomcat switch provides a marginally heavier feel when fully pressed down. As a result, both switches are categorized as medium-light, appealing to users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended sessions. Those who appreciate a firmer feedback when bottoming out may lean towards the Tomcat due to its slightly higher bottom out force, while the Milky Red Pro may be favored for its overall softer touch in both actuation and bottoming out. Overall, users looking for a light switch experience would find both switches suitable, but with the Tomcat offering a bit more resistance at the bottom.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Milky Red Pro features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it adhere to a more traditional depth that many users find satisfying for a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, which can contribute to faster response times, potentially appealing to gamers who seek quick actions. Therefore, for users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feel, the Milky Red Pro with its 4 mm travel distance would be the better choice, while those who favor a snappier response might opt for the Tomcat. Ultimately, one can achieve similar results with both switches by adjusting typing techniques; however, the defining travel distances highlight the preference for either depth or responsiveness based on individual comfort.
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 Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch distinguishes itself with a low-pitched and deep “thock” sound, which is both satisfying and rich, resembling a soft thud upon key press. This characteristic is enhanced by the inherent properties of the switch, allowing for a bassy sound profile that adds depth to the overall typing experience. In contrast, specific details regarding the sound profile of the Bsun Tomcat switch remain less defined. While it's noted to have a resonant sound, there's a lack of descriptors like "thocky" or "bassy" that detail the exact auditory experience, leaving its sound character somewhat ambiguous compared to the Milky Red Pro.
Regarding the tactile feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is celebrated for its buttery smooth keystrokes that provide an effortless typing sensation, allowing for a seamless and fluid experience that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switch is noted for its Ly stems which reportedly contribute to a super smooth typing experience as well. However, without more detailed descriptors of its tactile feedback, it's challenging to make a direct comparison. Nonetheless, both switches are designed to prioritize smoothness, leading to similarities in overall typing feel.
In summary, if you're considering either the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, both offer notable qualities that can enhance your typing experience. The Milky Red Pro provides a distinct low-pitched, thocky sound along with a buttery smooth feel, making it a recommended choice for those who value acoustic and tactile satisfaction. While the sound profile of the Tomcat remains less defined, it promises a smooth typing experience as well. Ultimately, both switches cater to users seeking a smooth linear experience, albeit with different acoustic characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, along with a satisfying low-pitched thock sound, the Milky Red Pro is an excellent option. Its medium-light actuation force of 52 grams makes it suitable for extended typing sessions, offering a buttery, effortless keystroke that can reduce fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer slightly firmer resistance with a bottom-out force of 54 grams and are drawn to the resonant sound profile that the Tomcat switches offer, then the Bsun Tomcat might be the better choice. While its tactile qualities are less clearly defined, the overall experience still emphasizes smoothness. Therefore, consider how sound and actuation force impact your typing comfort and sound preferences when making your decision—these factors will help you determine which switch aligns best with your mechanical keyboard needs.
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