Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile 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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile stand out as popular options catering to different preferences. The Milky Red Pro is a linear switch, offering a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with its buttery keystrokes and low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile is a tactile switch known for its profound tactile feedback, 70g bump, and captivating "thocky" sound, providing a more engaging and satisfying typing experience. While the Milky Red Pro excels in providing a smooth and affordable typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a more tactile and invigorating feel. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile both feature nylon top and bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This common housing material choice between the two switches ensures that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound output and overall feel.
However, while both switches share the same nylon housing material, the key difference may lie in the design and construction of the switches themselves. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the WS Heavy Tactile may feature different internal components such as springs, stems, and contacts, which can affect the overall typing experience. This means that even though they use the same housing material, the switches may still offer distinct tactile feedback, actuation force, and key travel distance.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile both utilize nylon top and bottom housings to create a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. While the housing material may be the same, differences in internal components can lead to variations in tactile feedback and overall typing experience. Whether you choose the Milky Red Pro or the WS Heavy Tactile, you can expect a similar typing sound and feel due to the shared nylon housing material, but nuances in switch design may provide unique characteristics for each switch.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, we can see notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Milky Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes quickly, while the WS Heavy Tactile shares the same actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro has a lighter 52 grams compared to the heavier 70 grams of the WS Heavy Tactile. This means that the WS Heavy Tactile provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, individuals looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milky Red Pro, while those seeking a heavier push feel may opt for the WS Heavy Tactile.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Milky Red Pro offers a more traditional travel distance, while the WS Heavy Tactile provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to individual preferences for keyboard typing and gaming.
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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is praised for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and rich auditory experience that is satisfying to the ears. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is known for its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile that is immersive and clean. Depending on your preference for sound characteristics, you can choose between the smooth and bassy tones of the Milky Red Pro or the sharp and clacky sounds of the WS Heavy Tactile.
In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. On the contrary, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is known for its accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel, providing a tactile typing experience with a prominent tactile bump and responsive feedback. Depending on your preference for typing sensation, you can opt for the smooth and uniform feel of the Milky Red Pro or the pronounced tactile feedback of the WS Heavy Tactile.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Red Pro excels in providing a buttery and bassy typing experience with a low-pitched thock sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile delivers a sharp and resonant feel with a clacky sound profile. Choosing between the two switches will depend on your individual preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and affordable typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, you may want to choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch. These switches are known for their buttery smoothness and low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a profound tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and captivating "thocky" sound, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch may be the better choice for you. These switches offer an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, making typing engaging and satisfying. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Choose the switch that suits your typing style and preferences best.
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