Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Type S both offer unique characteristics to consider. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its budget-friendly linear switch design that provides a smooth and satisfying typing experience, with a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S stands out for its innovative factory lubing techniques, offering a weightier keystroke and a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is noted for its buttery and bassy feel, the Type S is known for its subdued and neutral sound signature. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Type S feature nylon top and bottom housing materials, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This shared characteristic between the two switches means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel.
However, when considering the differences between the top and bottom housings of each switch, it's important to note that the qualities of the housing materials will be more prominent in either the top or bottom part of the switch. The bottom housing plays a greater role in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound produced when the key is released. This distinction in the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience highlights how subtle variations can lead to differences in overall sound and feel between the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Type S.
In conclusion, while both the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Type S utilize nylon top and bottom housing materials to create a similar typing experience with deep and full sound profiles, the specific qualities of the housing materials may vary in terms of their impact on the typing experience. Understanding how the top and bottom housing materials influence different aspects of sound and feel can provide users with insight into the subtle nuances between these two switches, allowing them to choose based on their preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Type S is heavier with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for extended typing sessions or gaming, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the heavier Type S switch. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, providing options for users with different preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that the typing experience with both switches will result in similar key presses in terms of travel distance. Therefore, whether you choose the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Type S linear switch, you can expect consistent results in terms of travel distance during use.
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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its buttery smooth keystrokes that evoke a satisfyingly low-pitched "thock" sound, making it a popular choice for those seeking a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a weightier keystroke with a sound signature that leans towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, catering to those who prefer a slightly heavier feel. When it comes to sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, while the Type S is described as neutral and subdued. The feel of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is described as buttery, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. With the Type S, the feel is unknown, but based on the available information, it can be inferred that it may offer a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience. Overall, if you enjoy a smoother, lighter feel with a low-pitched sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be the ideal choice for you. If you prefer a weightier feel with a neutral and subdued sound, the Gateron Type S linear switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a more neutral and subdued sound profile, the Type S would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and the experience you aim to achieve with your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
