Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch stands out with its buttery smoothness and low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force for a more substantial feel. While both switches have their unique characteristics and benefits, such as smooth keystrokes and a satisfying typing feel, choosing between the two ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Red, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. The nylon material used in both switches is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using nylon housings, providing a satisfying tactile response for users.
However, despite the similarities in housing material, slight variations may occur in the sound and feel of the switches due to differences in manufacturing processes or design choices. While both switches feature nylon housings that contribute to a deeper sound profile and softer feel, the specific design of the housings may impact the overall typing experience. These nuances might be subtle, but discerning users may notice slight variations in sound and feel between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Red.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Red may come down to personal preference or specific typing requirements. Both switches offer a similar tactile experience with their nylon housings, providing a deep and satisfying sound profile during typing. Whether you prefer the Gateron or Wuque brand, both switches are designed to deliver a consistent and high-quality typing experience for users who appreciate the benefits of nylon housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is clear that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Milky Red Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the WS Red has an unspecified actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. The difference in bottom out force indicates that the WS Red switch requires more pressure to fully press down compared to the Milky Red Pro. This makes the WS Red more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro's lighter actuation and bottom out forces make it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the WS Red has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Milky Red Pro. Both switches offer a relatively traditional travel distance, with the Milky Red Pro being slightly longer. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Red, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
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 Red 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
When comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro offers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the WS Red switch are unknown, making it difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of sound. Ultimately, the choice of switch sound is subjective and can be influenced by various factors such as personal preference, keyboard build, and keycap selection.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is known for its buttery smooth keystrokes, delivering a seamless and fluid typing experience that is uniform and effortless. Meanwhile, the WS Red switch offers a bouncy and responsive typing feel with a heavier actuation force, adding a satisfying weight to each keystroke. Without specific information on the feel of the WS Red switch, it is challenging to directly compare the two switches in terms of typing sensation. However, based on the available descriptions, it is clear that both switches aim to provide a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience through their respective features.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milky Red Pro is praised for its smooth keystrokes and low-pitched, thocky sound profile, the WS Red switch boasts a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, as both switches strive to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. If you prefer a smoother, buttery feel and a bassy, thocky sound, the Milky Red Pro may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bouncy and responsive typing feel with a heavier actuation force, the WS Red switch could be more suited to your preferences. Experimenting with different switches on various keyboards can help you determine the best option for your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches, consider your preference for a lighter or heavier bottom out force. If you prefer a smoother and more budget-friendly typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bouncier and more substantial typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the WS Red could be the perfect option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should be based on your personal typing style and comfort preferences.