TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch. The Bluish White offers a tactile typing experience with a satisfyingly poppy feel and a snappy sound profile, categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Subtle', 'Polished', and 'Low-pitched'. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with buttery smoothness and a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound, categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched'. Both switches offer unique benefits and characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles; 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), one key difference is that the Bluish White features a polycarbonate top housing while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users of each switch.
Another point of comparison is the bottom housing materials of the two switches. Both the Bluish White and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) feature nylon bottom housings. This means that the switches will share a similar deeper and fuller sound profile on the bottom-out, as nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties. While the bottom housing may not be as noticeable during typing compared to the top housing, it still plays a role in the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in switches like the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience for users. While polycarbonate offers a sharper, crisper sound profile with its stiffer nature, nylon provides a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer, sound-absorbing properties. Whether the top and bottom housings are the same or different, each material brings its own unique qualities to the switch that can be felt and heard during use.
Weight
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 52 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Bluish White switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while the Milky Red Pro switch offers a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a tactile feedback, but the Bluish White switch is lighter overall, while the Milky Red Pro switch falls into the medium-light category, providing a slightly more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milky Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bluish White. The 0.5 mm may not seem significant, but it can make a difference in the overall feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Bluish White, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference, with both switches offering their own unique advantages depending on the user's needs and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and snappy sound profile, offering a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as bassy and thocky, with a smooth keystroke that produces a pleasing low-pitched “thock” sound. Depending on personal preference, the Bluish White may provide a more mellow and bass-heavy tone, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a deeper and richer sound resembling a soft "knock" when pressed and released. Ultimately, the sound of both switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, both the Bluish White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are described as providing a buttery typing experience, offering a seamless and uniform sensation. The Bluish White is also characterized as mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with smooth key travel. Similarly, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is noted for its buttery feel, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable and consistent typing sensation, catering to individuals who prefer a more gentle and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, while the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have distinct sound and feel qualities, they both aim to provide satisfying typing experiences. The Bluish White offers a snappy and low-pitched sound profile alongside a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished tactile feel. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) delivers a bassy and thocky sound with a buttery and smooth typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can offer a pleasant typing experience, ensuring a choice that aligns with individual preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Bluish White tactile switch or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you should think about your preference for typing experience. If you desire a satisfyingly poppy and snappy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Bluish White may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and affordable typing experience with a buttery smoothness and a pleasing thock sound, then the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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