Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is a linear switch that is celebrated for its smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, characterized by a buttery smooth keystroke and a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and plush bottom-out sensation, offering a whisper-quiet typing experience. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may appeal to those seeking a smoother typing experience, the Gazzew U4 may be more suitable for those who prefer a tactile feedback. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4, both switches utilize soft plastics in their top and bottom housings. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," to also deliver a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both switches use soft plastics in their housing materials, they each offer a unique typing experience based on their specific plastic blends.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4 both aim to provide a deep and rich sound profile, the specific properties of their plastics may impact the overall typing experience. Nylon, used in the Milky Red Pro, is known for its softer nature and ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Conversely, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing may contribute to a different bottom-out sound and feel due to its unique plastic blend. Despite both switches aiming to provide a similar sound profile, the specific properties of their housing materials may offer subtle differences in the typing experience.
Due to the similar softness of their housing materials, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4 are likely to produce comparable results in terms of sound profile. The use of softer plastics in both switches allows for a deeper and fuller sound when typing, creating a more immersive typing experience for users. While the specific plastic blends may have slight differences in sound profile, the overall impact of the housing materials on the typing experience is likely to be consistent between the two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is enhanced by the properties of their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally easy to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro requires 52 grams, while the U4 needs 62 grams. This means that the Milky Red Pro is lighter in terms of bottoming out compared to the U4, which may appeal to those who prefer a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the U4 provides a slightly heavier feel when bottoming out, which could be favored by users who like a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the U4 tactile switch has the shorter travel distance, making it potentially preferred by gamers looking for a faster response time. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with its slightly longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics, but with different travel distances, users may experience different typing sensations.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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) linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch produces a muted and low-pitched sound, offering a quieter typing environment overall. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference in sound, as both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the feeling of the switches, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its buttery smooth keystrokes, delivering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity, providing a distinct and crisp typing experience. Choosing between these switches will boil down to whether you prefer a smoother and uniform keystroke with the Milky Red Pro or a more tactile and pronounced bump with the Gazzew U4.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a deep and rich sound profile with a smooth typing experience, the Milky Red Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a quieter typing environment with a sharp tactile bump and plush bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 could be the ideal pick. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths, and it's important to consider your personal preferences when selecting the best switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound, then the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a sharp tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation, along with a whisper-quiet sound profile, then the Gazzew U4 is the ideal choice for you. Consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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