Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and Haimu Viola Tricolor stand out as popular options for different preferences. The Milky Red Pro is a linear switch that offers a smooth and affordable typing experience, known for its buttery keystrokes and low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch that provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile, with a perfect balance of tactility that doesn't overwhelm the user. While the Milky Red Pro is ideal for those who prefer a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, the Viola Tricolor is perfect for users looking for a more pronounced tactility without being overly tactile. 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
N/A
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. However, the Viola Tricolor stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The difference in materials used for the top housing gives each switch a unique sound characteristic.
Although both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor also utilizes nylon for its top housing. This results in a split of qualities between the top and bottom of the switches. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. This distinction highlights how even subtle differences in housing materials can impact the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Haimu Viola Tricolor comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a similar deep and full sound profile, while the difference in the top housing material creates distinct characteristics in the sound output. Whether you prefer a deeper, rounder sound with nylon or a sharper, crisper sound with polycarbonate, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the materials used in their housing.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro requires 52 grams while the Viola Tricolor needs 63.5 grams, making the Viola Tricolor the heavier option. The Milky Red Pro provides a medium-light typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers a medium-heavy feel, suitable for users who enjoy a more substantial push for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, slightly longer than the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch. The Milky Red Pro's 4 mm travel distance offers a traditional feel, while the Viola Tricolor's 3.8 mm provides a slightly shallower experience. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Viola Tricolor a popular choice among competitive players. However, those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Milky Red Pro for a more substantial feel. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but the minor difference in travel distance can make a significant impact on 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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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) linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch are described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. The Milky Red Pro is said to produce a thocky sound, resembling a deep and satisfying thud, while the Viola Tricolor offers a thuddy and punchy sound that adds character to the typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will offer a rich and satisfying auditory experience, with the Viola Tricolor providing a touch more character.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is praised for its buttery smooth keystrokes, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is described as accented, providing a pronounced amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The Viola Tricolor also offers an invigorating typing experience, with moderate to firm actuation force and a snappy feel. Both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience, but the Viola Tricolor offers a bit more tactile feedback for those who prefer a more pronounced feel.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it's evident that both switches excel in different aspects. The Milky Red Pro offers a smoother sound and keystroke experience, while the Viola Tricolor provides a more tactile and invigorating typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched thock sound or a tactile switch with a punchy and accented feel, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, you should consider your personal preferences regarding typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and budget-friendly option with a low-pitched and satisfying sound profile, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback, a thuddy and punchy sound profile, and a balance between tactility and smooth keystrokes, the Viola Tricolor could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch and the specific characteristics that matter most to you in your mechanical keyboard typing experience.
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