Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl stand out as two premium linear options, each appealing to distinct typing preferences. The Milky Red Pro is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and enjoyable low-pitched “thock” sound, making it a fantastic budget-friendly choice for those who value a satisfying auditory feedback and a buttery typing experience. In contrast, the WS Pearl switch offers a unique sensation through its incorporation of ball-bearings, which significantly reduces friction and results in an exceptionally smooth keystroke feel. Additionally, the WS Pearl boasts a distinctive medium-high pitched sound, providing a different auditory experience. While the Milky Red Pro caters to those who appreciate a soft, bass-like sound, the WS Pearl serves those who prioritize an ultra-smooth typing action and a higher-pitched acoustic profile. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl both utilize nylon for their housing materials, which contributes significantly to the acoustic characteristics and overall performance of the switches. Both switches share the same housing paradigm, with nylon as a classic choice due to its unique properties. The nylon construction in both switches allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer nature of the plastic absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. This results in both switches possessing a duller and rounder sound, making them favorable choices for users seeking a more muted typing experience.
In terms of the specific housing configurations, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and WS Pearl both feature nylon top and bottom housings, reinforcing their emphasis on sound quality. The impact of the nylon material means that both switches will exhibit similar acoustic profiles when typing. The qualities inherent in nylon, such as sound absorption and a softer feel, inherently benefit both switches, allowing users to expect a comparable tactile feedback and acoustic response throughout their engagement with either switch. Typing on these switches will produce a consistent sound signature, contributing to an enjoyable typing experience.
While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and WS Pearl are made from the same material and share similar housing designs, the overall experience when using each switch may still differ to some extent due to variations in switch design and construction beyond just housing material. That said, the similar use of nylon for both top and bottom housing in each switch ensures that users can achieve analogous results in terms of sound quality and tactile response. When pressed, each switch will deliver a distinctive bottom-out sound and feel, while the release from the key will maintain the rounded and muted acoustics that both models aim to provide, making them suitable for a range of typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Milky Red Pro features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Pearl is significantly lighter at 30 grams, making it the easier switch for rapid key presses and prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro has a measurement of 52 grams, which is only slightly less than the WS Pearl’s heavier bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that while the Milky Red Pro is generally lighter overall, the WS Pearl provides a more resistant feel when bottoming out. Users who prefer a light touch for extended use may gravitate toward the WS Pearl, whereas those seeking a more substantial typing experience might favor the Milky Red Pro due to its slightly higher resistance during actuation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, a notable difference arises. The Milky Red Pro features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Pearl has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Milky Red Pro offers a more traditional and deeper key press, appealing to users who prefer a substantial feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the WS Pearl, with its 3.5 mm travel distance, caters to those who value quicker response times and a snappier feel, often favored by gamers. Ultimately, if you prefer a more robust typing experience, the Milky Red Pro is the better choice, while the WS Pearl serves those who appreciate agility in actuation.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00 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) switches deliver a notably deep and satisfying auditory experience. They produce a low-pitched "thock" sound characterized as bassy and thocky, making each keystroke feel substantial and rich. This sound profile provides a pleasing acoustic feedback that many users find gratifying. On the other hand, while specific sound details about the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches are absent, they are noted for their unique design featuring ball-bearings aimed at reducing friction. This construction could suggest a quieter keystroke, but without concrete descriptors, a direct sound comparison remains speculative.
When examining the feel of these switches, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is highly regarded for its buttery smooth keystroke. This quality ensures a seamless and effortless typing experience, making it particularly appealing for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the WS Pearl's smoothness is implied to be enhanced by its ball-bearing mechanism, likely offering an even more surreal typing sensation. However, without specific descriptors related to the tactile feedback of the WS Pearl, a comprehensive comparison on feel is limited.
In summary, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milky Red Pro excels with its low-pitched, thocky sound and buttery smoothness, creating an enjoyable overall experience. Meanwhile, the WS Pearl's design may provide a different level of smoothness due to its ball-bearing technology, but the specifics remain less defined. Overall, if you appreciate a solid auditory feedback and a smooth feel, the Milky Red Pro might be your best bet, while the WS Pearl might intrigue those looking for a unique design and potentially smoother keystrokes.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches largely depends on your typing style and preferences. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option that provides a remarkably smooth typing experience with a satisfying thock sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is an excellent choice. With its medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams, it caters well to those who enjoy a lighter touch and a buttery keystroke that feels effortless—ideal for prolonged typing sessions or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that offers a unique tactile sensation enhanced by ball-bearings for reduced friction, then the WS Pearl, with its medium bottom out force of 58 grams, might be more suited to your needs. While it may require a slightly firmer press, the WS Pearl’s surreal smoothness and distinctive high-pitched sound make it an enticing option for enthusiasts who appreciate both the auditory and tactile feedback from their switches. Thus, consider what aspect—be it sound, feel, or force—you value most, and choose accordingly for an optimal typing experience.
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