Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear 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 Silent Linear both offer unique features for different preferences. The Milky Red Pro is celebrated for its smooth and budget-friendly linear switches that provide a buttery smooth typing experience accompanied by a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque stand out for their innovative design that reduces noise without the use of silicone dampeners, offering a quieter and more precise typing experience. While the Milky Red Pro is characterized by its 'buttery' and 'bassy' feel, the WS Silent Linear is described as 'neutral' and 'mild'. 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
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both use nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom housing of the switches. This means that when typing on these switches, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb sound well and create a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The similarities in housing material indicate that users can expect similar acoustic experiences when using both switches.
However, despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housing material, there may be subtle differences in the sound and feel of typing on the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches. These differences can be attributed to factors such as the design of the housing, the internal components of the switches, and the overall construction of the switches. While both switches may offer a similar overall sound profile, users may notice nuances in sound and feel when comparing the two side by side.
In terms of performance, the choice between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches may come down to personal preference and individual typing habits. Both switches offer a classic nylon housing material that enhances typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether the slight differences in sound and feel between the two switches are noticeable enough to sway a user's decision likely depends on the user's sensitivity to such nuances. Ultimately, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience due to their similar housing materials and resulting sound profiles.
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 Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro is lighter in both aspects compared to the WS Silent Linear. The Milky Red Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it medium-light, while the WS Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, medium-heavy force. The actuation force for the WS Silent Linear is unknown. The actuation force is crucial for initiating keystrokes efficiently, while the bottom out force determines the overall typing experience by measuring how much force is needed to press keys fully. Some users prefer lighter switches like the Milky Red Pro for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier force of the WS Silent Linear for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. In this case, the WS Silent Linear has a shorter travel distance compared to the Milky Red Pro. Gamers may prefer the WS Silent Linear for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Milky Red Pro. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Silent Linear 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its deep and rich bassy sound profile, characterized by a satisfying low-pitched "thock" during key presses. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offers a more muted and subdued typing experience, with a focus on reducing noise without the traditional cushioned sensation of silicone dampeners. Both switches provide a different auditory experience, with the Milky Red Pro being more bass-heavy and thocky, while the WS Silent Linear offers a quieter and more tranquil typing environment.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is revered for its buttery smooth keystrokes, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. While the Milky Red Pro focuses on delivering a smooth and uniform feel, the WS Silent Linear aims to provide a comfortable and non-intrusive typing experience, striking a balance between responsiveness and tranquility for the user.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Red Pro provides a bassy and thocky typing experience with buttery smoothness, while the WS Silent Linear focuses on reducing noise and delivering a subtle typing sensation without silicone dampeners. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the deep richness of the Milky Red Pro or the muted tranquility of the WS Silent Linear for their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their unique characteristics, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a buttery feel and a low-pitched, thocky sound, then the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience with neutral, muted, and subdued sound profiles, as well as a mild feel that falls in a safe middle ground, then the WS Silent Linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what characteristics matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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