Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4Tx offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is a linear switch renowned for its smooth keystrokes, buttery feel, and low-pitched "thock" sound, making it a popular choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx is a tactile switch that combines the deep, resonant "thock" of the U4T when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet stealth of the U4 when topping out, providing a luxurious typing experience with a sharp, satisfying tactile bump. While both switches excel in different aspects such as sound profile and tactile feedback, it ultimately boils down to personal preference. 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
62.5g
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
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4Tx both use soft housing materials to create a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the proprietary Gazzew blend top housing of the U4Tx are designed to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound, the specific plastic blend used in the U4Tx may provide a slightly richer and deeper sound compared to the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3).
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches feature housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile during typing. The nylon bottom housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx both deliver a deep and full sound profile due to their softness. While the nylon bottom housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is a classic switch housing material, the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx provides a rich sound profile that may offer a slightly different typing experience compared to the Milky Red Pro (KS-3).
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gazzew U4Tx both offer deep and full sound profiles due to their soft housing materials, the specific plastic blend used in the U4Tx may provide a slightly richer and deeper sound compared to the Milky Red Pro (KS-3). Whether the housing materials are the same or different for a given switch, the qualities each material brings to the switch will ultimately impact the overall sound and feel during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Milky Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the U4Tx has an unspecified actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, putting it in the medium category. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Milky Red Pro, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the U4Tx due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, the Milky Red Pro has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4Tx has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Milky Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4Tx, which may provide a more satisfying key press for those who enjoy a deeper feel. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Milky Red Pro being the longer option and the U4Tx being the shorter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press feel and responsiveness.
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 U4Tx 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
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is characterized by a bassy, thocky sound with a low-pitched tone, providing a smooth and buttery keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a deep, resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, along with a whisper-quiet topping out sound, creating a refined and cleaner sound profile. In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a buttery and seamless typing sensation, while the Gazzew U4Tx provides a sharp and intense tactile bump with each keypress. Depending on personal preference, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be more suitable for those who enjoy a smoother typing experience with a deeper sound profile, while the Gazzew U4Tx may be preferred by individuals seeking a tactile feedback with a cleaner sound. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider factors such as sound, feel, and overall typing experience when selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother keystroke with a low-pitched "thock" sound, then the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a cleaner sound profile with a deep "thock" when bottoming out, and a sharp tactile bump, then the Gazzew U4Tx might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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