Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milky Red Pro is praised for its affordable price point and smooth keystrokes, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the WS Onion stands out with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, offering a buttery smooth feel and a crisp, responsive touch with a neutral sound profile. While the Milky Red Pro is known for its bassy and thocky qualities, the WS Onion is recognized for its polished and neutral characteristics. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, making them suitable choices for various typing needs. 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
63.5g
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
Partial box
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, where they differ is in the top housing material. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) uses nylon for the top housing, while the WS Onion opts for polycarbonate. The use of polycarbonate in the WS Onion creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound.
Aesthetically, the choice of housing material in switches can also have an impact on how they look. The WS Onion's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for a translucent design, making it ideal for switches meant to be used with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing may not have the same visual appeal as the WS Onion, but both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their specific housing materials. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the WS Onion also offers a balance between a sharp, crisp sound and a deeper, fuller sound, depending on which part of the switch is being used.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Onion will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on their housing materials, with the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) providing a deeper sound profile throughout and the WS Onion offering a clear, sharp sound due to its polycarbonate top housing. However, if a user is looking for a switch that balances both qualities, the WS Onion may be the better choice as it combines the benefits of both nylon and polycarbonate in its housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, we can see some notable differences. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the WS Onion has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. The difference in force between the two switches can significantly impact the typing experience. While some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Milky Red Pro for extended typing or gaming sessions, others may gravitate towards the WS Onion for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switches both have the same travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This can result in a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the Milky Red Pro or the WS Onion linear switch, you can expect to feel the same travel distance when using either of them.
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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 offers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, which creates a deep and satisfying tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of typing environments. Both switches can offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Milky Red Pro focusing on a richer sound while the WS Onion provides a more versatile sound suitable for different preferences.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches are described as offering a buttery smooth keystroke experience. This means that users can expect a smooth, effortless, and uniform typing sensation when using either switch, making them both highly enjoyable to type on. Additionally, the WS Onion switch is noted for its polished feel, indicating a refined finish that contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer a buttery smooth typing experience. The Milky Red Pro excels in providing a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, while the WS Onion offers a neutral sound profile suitable for various typing environments. Whether you choose the Milky Red Pro for a richer sound or the WS Onion for its versatile sound profile, both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience with their buttery smooth feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and the specific typing environment in which they will be used.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, you should opt for the Milky Red Pro if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a low-pitched, thocky sound profile. These switches are ideal for those seeking a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more neutral sound profile, the WS Onion switches with their polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing may be the better choice for you. These switches offer a buttery and polished typing experience that is both responsive and satisfying. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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