Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, one can immediately see the distinct differences in their characteristics and intended typing experiences. The Milky Red Pro is praised for its smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, offering a buttery smooth keystroke accompanied by a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T stands out for its harmony of thockiness and assertive tactile feedback, delivering a bassy "thock" sound profile and sharp tactility with each press. While the Milky Red Pro is ideal for those seeking a smooth and quiet typing experience, the U4T is suited for individuals who enjoy audibly satisfying clicks and noticeable tactile feedback with each key press. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4T both offer a deep and full sound profile due to their softness. The nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro provides a duller and rounder sound, while the U4T's proprietary plastic blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile. This suggests that both switches offer a similar typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of these switches differ slightly in their material composition. The nylon bottom housing of the Milky Red Pro and the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4T both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softness. However, the specific blend of plastic used in the U4T may offer a slightly different sound experience compared to the classic nylon material used in the Milky Red Pro. Despite this difference, both switches excel in creating a satisfying typing experience with their bottom housings.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4T provide similar results in terms of sound quality and typing experience. While they may have minor differences in their top and bottom housing materials, both switches offer a deep and full sound profile that is enhanced by the softness of their respective plastics. Whether you prefer the classic feel of nylon or the proprietary blend of the U4T, both switches are sure to provide a pleasing and immersive typing experience for enthusiasts and typists alike.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Milky Red Pro is also lighter at 52 grams, while the U4T has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Milky Red Pro offers a lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the U4T provides a more substantial push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches have their own advantages, depending on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer a standard travel distance, providing a similar feel and response to the user. Whether you choose the Milky Red Pro or the U4T, you can expect a smooth typing experience with a 4mm travel distance.
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 U4T 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, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4T switches are described as bassy and thocky, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound during key presses. The low-pitched tone of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) gives a mellow and bass-heavy sound, while the U4T provides a more assertive and prominent thockiness. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is known for its buttery smooth keystrokes, offering a seamless and uniform typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T provides a sharp tactile feedback with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. The U4T's tactile bump adds an extra layer of tactile satisfaction compared to the smooth linear feel of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3).
In conclusion, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) excels in providing a smooth typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched sound, while the Gazzew U4T delivers a more tactile feedback with a bassy thocky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel preferences. If similar results are desired, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience depending on personal preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch or the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience. If you prefer a smoother and more affordable option with a medium-light bottom out force and a buttery keystroke feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and sharp feedback with a bassy 'thock' sound profile and don't mind a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Gazzew U4T is the better choice for you. Remember, ultimately the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing style.
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