Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between a linear and tactile mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offer distinct advantages for different preferences. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is a linear switch that provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a smooth and budget-friendly option. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile is a tactile switch that offers a snappy and perceptible tactile bump along with a neutral sound signature, catering to those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. 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
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing known for its ability to create a duller and rounder sound profile due to its softer nature, the WS Light Tactile opts for a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users seeking a specific auditory feedback from their keyboard switches.
On the other hand, both the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the WS Light Tactile share a nylon bottom housing material, which is renowned for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users of both switches can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the sound generated when bottoming out keys. Despite the differences in their respective top housings, this commonality in bottom housing material may lead to a comparable typing feel and sound profile between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in keyboard switches such as the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile plays a crucial role in shaping the sound and tactile feedback experienced by users. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes a combination of nylon top and bottom housings to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, the WS Light Tactile employs a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound experience. Understanding how these housing materials interact with key presses can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their mechanical keyboards based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in this aspect. However, the Milky Red Pro has a higher bottom out force of 52 grams, making it slightly heavier than the WS Light Tactile, which bottoms out at 50 grams. The Milky Red Pro offers a medium-light feel, while the WS Light Tactile provides a lighter touch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Light Tactile would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions with less strain. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing feel may prefer the slightly heavier Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches provide a consistent feel and typing experience in terms of travel distance. Users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and actuation depth when using either switch. Both switches offer a smooth and responsive typing experience due to their identical travel distances. Overall, whether you choose the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the WS Light Tactile, you can expect a consistent and reliable typing experience with a travel distance of 4 mm.
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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 known for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich tone with a satisfying thocky sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offers a more neutral sound signature, which is suitable for various purposes and preferences. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) will provide a deeper and richer sound experience, while the WS Light Tactile will offer a more moderate and versatile sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience for effortless and uniform typing sensation. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch is characterized by its stepped feel, offering a two-stage tactile experience with mild pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. Additionally, the WS Light Tactile switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and enhancing the typing experience with a responsive and low-impact feel.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch excels in providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a deep and satisfying thocky sound, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offers a more versatile and neutral sound profile with a stepped tactile feel that is easy-to-press. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a deep sound or a versatile sound profile with a stepped tactile feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth, buttery keystroke 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 enjoy a light bottom out force and a snappy tactile bump with a neutral sound signature, the WS Light Tactile switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize smoothness and sound profile or a tactile bump and ease of typing. Choose the switch that best fits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
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