Gateron Milky Red – Linear – Soft, Smooth & Quiet Typing with a Milky Feel

The Gateron Milky Red is one of the most popular linear switches in the mechanical keyboard community. Thanks to its signature milky housing, this switch provides a soft, muted, and exceptionally smooth keystroke. Ideal for users who want quiet, fluid, and consistent linear typing without scratch or ping.
Specifications
- Type: Linear (smooth, no tactile bump)
- Actuation force: approx. 45 cN
- Pre-travel: 2.0 mm
- Total travel: 4.0 mm
- Materials: Milky nylon housing, POM stem, high-quality spring
- Lifespan: 50–80 million actuations
Performance & Feel
The Milky Red is known for its smooth and muted typing experience. The semi-translucent nylon housing softens the sound, producing a gentle “thock” instead of a sharp clack. The slider feels extremely smooth even stock, making this switch a strong choice for quiet builds, gaming, and all-round everyday use.
What do users say on forums?
“One of the best budget linears ever – smooth, quiet and reliable.”
“The milky housing gives a warm, muted sound. Perfect for thocky boards.”
“Better feel than many expensive switches. Great out of the box.”
Pros
- Very smooth linear feel
- Warm, muted sound thanks to milky housing
- Perfect for quiet builds and gaming
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
Cons
- No tactile feedback (not ideal for everyone)
- Stock lubrication may vary between batches
Comparison Table
| Switch | Sound | Feel | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gateron Milky Red | Soft, muted | Smooth, light linear | Quiet builds, gaming, all-round use |
| Gateron Red (KS-9) | Slightly sharper | Lighter, less muted | Entry-level linears |
| Gateron Oil King | Deep thock | Heavier, premium smooth | High-end linear typing |
Where to buy?
Conclusion
Gateron Milky Red offers a muted sound, smooth linear movement, and exceptional value. A perfect choice for beginners and experienced builders who want a clean, quiet, and smooth typing experience.
Check out our full Switch Collection at RGBKeys for more options.

