Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Gateron Oil King
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its smooth and affordable typing experience, characterized by a buttery smooth feel and a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Oil King stands out for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of snapping a dark chocolate bar. While both switches share qualities such as being low-pitched and buttery, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is labeled as more bassy and thocky, whereas the Oil King is described as creamy, silky, and polished. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on 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
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King both feature nylon top housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the bottom housing of the Oil King switch features Gateron's proprietary INK blend, which gives it a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a unique typing experience between the two switches.
While both switches share a nylon top housing, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King showcase a distinct difference in their bottom housing materials. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Oil King's INK blend bottom housing offers a more high-pitched and clacky sound profile, adding a unique typing feel to the switch. This difference in bottom housing materials may influence the overall sound and tactile feedback of each switch when typing.
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King demonstrate a contrast in sound profiles due to their different bottom housing materials. While both switches utilize a nylon top housing for a deeper and fuller sound, the Oil King stands out with its proprietary INK blend bottom housing, resulting in a more pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. Despite this difference, the top housing may still play a significant role in the sound profile when letting go of a key, showcasing how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience of the switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is clear that the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is lighter in both aspects. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. The actuation force is crucial for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force needed to press a key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be a suitable choice. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Oil King switch due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, both offer a consistent 4 mm distance from the top to the bottom, providing a similar tactile experience when typing or gaming. As a result, users can expect comparable results in terms of key press feedback and overall typing feel when using either switch. Whether choosing the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Oil King linear switch, the travel distance remains the same, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience for users.
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 Gateron Oil King comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King linear switches offer a low-pitched and bassy tone during key presses. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is known for its satisfying low-pitched "thock" sound, while the Oil King provides a sound profile reminiscent of dark chocolate snapping. Both switches give a deep and rich auditory experience, making them suitable for those who enjoy a mellower sound profile. When comparing these two switches, you can expect similar results in sound quality, with slight variations in tone due to personal preferences, keyboard setup, and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is described as providing a buttery smooth and fluid keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King offers a creamy and silky sensation, thanks to lubrication applied in the switch at the factory. Both switches aim to deliver a smooth and effortless typing feel, allowing users to glide their fingers across the keys with ease. Whether you prefer a buttery or creamy typing experience, both switches offer a seamless and uniform sensation that enhances the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Gateron Oil King linear switches provide a smooth and satisfying typing experience with low-pitched and bassy sound profiles. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a buttery typing feel, the Oil King adds a creamy and silky touch to enhance the overall smoothness. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preferences in sound and feel, as both switches are designed to provide an enjoyable and affordable typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch or the Gateron Oil King linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with 52 grams may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Oil King with 65 grams may suit your typing style better. Additionally, consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is known for its low-pitched and thocky sound profile, while the Oil King offers a deep, bassy sound. In terms of feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a buttery typing experience, whereas the Oil King offers a creamy and silky sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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