Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile 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 Tactile are popular choices offering distinct typing experiences. The Milky Red Pro is praised for its budget-friendly linear design, known for providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile is preferred for its medium tactility and superior noise reduction, making it ideal for office environments. While the Milky Red Pro excels in its smoothness and affordability, the WS Silent Tactile stands out for its unique combination of silence and tactile feedback. 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, we find that both switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The use of nylon, a softer plastic, in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile as the material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, whether you choose the Milky Red Pro or the WS Silent Tactile, you can expect a typing experience that is consistent in terms of housing material.
However, while both switches share the same housing material, the impact of this material may differ depending on whether it is used in the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, influencing the overall typing experience when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, even though both the Gateron Milky Red Pro and the WS Silent Tactile use nylon for their housing, the distribution of this material may result in subtle differences in typing feel and sound between the two switches.
Ultimately, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile offer a similar typing experience due to their shared use of nylon housing materials. Typing on switches with nylon housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches made with harder plastics. While the impact of the housing material may differ between the top and bottom housings, users can expect a consistent quality in terms of sound and feel when typing on either of these switches. Whether you opt for the Milky Red Pro or the WS Silent Tactile, the use of nylon ensures a satisfying and immersive typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro requires 52 grams, while the WS Silent Tactile needs 63.5 grams to bottom out. The Milky Red Pro falls into the medium-light category, offering a smooth and lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile is categorized as medium-heavy, providing a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance while typing. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Milky Red Pro for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the WS Silent Tactile for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the type of typing experience the user is looking for.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Milky Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial keypress feel compared to the WS Silent Tactile. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Tactile, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience may opt for the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience due to their slight variance in travel distance.
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 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 offers a bassy and thocky sound profile with a low-pitched tone, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch is known for its neutral and muted sound, ideal for quiet office environments where noise reduction is a priority. The Milky Red Pro will give you a richer and deeper sound, while the WS Silent Tactile focuses on minimizing noise for a more tranquil typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is praised for its buttery smooth keystrokes, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. In comparison, the WS Silent Tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, and mild, providing a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming yet offers a satisfying typing experience. The Milky Red Pro will give you a smooth and fluid feel, while the WS Silent Tactile offers a balance between tactile feedback and comfort for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offer distinct but equally appealing qualities. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a smooth keystroke, the Milky Red Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize noise reduction and a medium tactile feedback for a comfortable typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile is an excellent choice. Both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that you'll get a satisfying typing experience based on your sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when selecting between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, consider your preferences and work environment. If you prioritize a smooth and affordable typing experience with a lower bottom out force and a satisfying "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you work in an office setting where noise reduction is crucial and you prefer a switch with medium tactility and a higher bottom out force, the WS Silent Tactile would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired sound profile and typing feel to optimize your mechanical keyboard experience. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and needs.
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