Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the PH Studio Milk Tea stand out as notable options, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Red appeals to those seeking a budget-friendly yet high-quality linear switch, offering a smooth typing experience with medium-light actuation force. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch adds a satisfying auditory element. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch by PH Studio boasts a distinctive auditory blend, combining a high-pitched sound with a muted essence for a balanced typing experience. With a light bottom-out force and a stem material designed for ease, it is tailored for extended typing sessions. While these general points may help guide your decision, delving deeper into the nuances of each switch will ultimately lead to finding the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the PH Studio Milk Tea both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Milk Tea features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the two differ in the specific sound they create, both materials offer distinct acoustic characteristics that can enhance the typing experience for users.
In terms of bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Red employs a nylon material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, contributing to a duller and rounder sound overall. Similarly, the Milk Tea utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also creates a pleasing and unique sound with deeper tones and a relatively more muted sound profile. Although the specific qualities of the sound may vary between the two switches, both nylon and POM materials offer a softer plastic that absorbs sound, resulting in a different typing experience compared to harder plastics.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the PH Studio Milk Tea utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red's combination of polycarbonate and nylon results in a sharp and resonant sound when typing, while the Milk Tea's POM housing material creates a pleasing and deeper tone. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with RGB lighting or a more muted and unique sound, both switches provide a distinct typing experience that can enhance your overall enjoyment.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Milk Tea's 37.5 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Red also requires a heavier force at 50 grams compared to the Milk Tea's 43.5 grams. Both switches fall within the lighter range of forces, making them suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. Ultimately, users can expect a similar typing feel from both switches due to their relatively light actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Milk Tea switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter travel distances are preferred for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Red for $2.77.
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is known for its neutral profile, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for various typing settings. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch presents a unique auditory blend with a clacky and high-pitched sound that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive, providing a different typing experience for users who prefer a more pronounced sound. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences and typing environments.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is known for its creamy and mild tactile sensation, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels effortless and polished. Likewise, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch also provides a polished and silky typing experience, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel for prolonged typing sessions. Both switches prioritize a refined and comfortable typing feel, enhancing the overall user experience with their smooth and effortless keystrokes.
Considering the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a neutral sound profile and a creamy typing feel, the Milk Tea switch delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a polished and silky typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing needs, ensuring that users can find the right fit for their mechanical keyboard setup based on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch or the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, your decision may depend on your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Red offers a slightly higher bottom out force at 50 grams, providing a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound profile and creamy feel. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch has a lower bottom out force at 43.5 grams, delivering a clacky, high-pitched sound and a polished, silky feel. If you prioritize a moderate actuation force and a smooth typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the better choice for you. Alternatively, if you prefer a sharper, high-pitched sound and a refined, polished feel, the Milk Tea switch could be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, allowing you to enhance your typing performance based on your individual preferences.
Mentioned in this article
