TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a satisfyingly poppy typing experience, then the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is the one for you. Known for its buttery, mild, and stepped feel, this switch offers a subtle yet polished typing experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch should be your top choice. With its smoothness and buttery goodness, it delivers a satisfyingly thick resistance and a low, "thocky" sound. These Milky Yellows have become the go-to switch for budget enthusiasts. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
The housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in their composition, which affects the sound profile and overall typing experience. The Bluish White features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Its stiffness allows for a clear and resonant sound profile, which is further enhanced when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Its softer plastic absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches share the same material - nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound while typing. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a more muffled and rounder sound profile. Both the Bluish White and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) take advantage of nylon's properties to provide a satisfying typing experience.
It's worth noting that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on the top and bottom housings of a switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more apparent. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the overall feedback when typing. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key, adding to the overall auditory experience of the switch. While the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may have different top and bottom housing materials, each contributes distinct attributes to the overall sound profile of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it becomes clear that there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The TTC Bluish White switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch requires a slightly heavier force of 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that the Bluish White switch provides a lighter and easier keystroke activation compared to the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Bluish White switch requires 50 grams while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch demands 62 grams. This indicates that the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch offers a more substantial and firmer typing experience, requiring a higher force to completely press down the keys. Ultimately, if one is seeking a lighter typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the TTC Bluish White switch would be the preferable choice. On the other hand, those who desire a more solid and heavier keystroke with more resistance, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch would be the suitable option.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly longer distance compared to the TTC Bluish White. The 4.0 mm travel distance is more traditional and offers a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White with its 3.5 mm travel distance is a bit shorter, making it a preferred choice among gamers who value faster response times. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is desired.
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 Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched sound profile. This type of switch produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses, providing a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound. The sound produced by this switch is characterized by a deeper and richer tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The Milky Yellow Pro is also described as thocky, meaning it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches offer low-pitched sound profiles with bass-like qualities, resulting in a satisfying sound experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished typing experience. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild characteristic suggests a more gentle typing experience that stands in a safe middle-ground zone. The stepped feature of the switch adds a mild tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The subtle resistance enhances the light typing feel while maintaining a suitable sound signature for shared spaces. The polished finish of the switch contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch also provides a buttery typing experience. This means it offers a smooth and fluid keystroke with a seamless and effortless sensation. Some users may prefer a subtle texture on their switches, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bluish White provides a snappy sound profile with a satisfyingly poppy typing experience, while the Milky Yellow Pro offers a low-pitched and bassy sound with a thocky characteristic. Both switches offer a buttery typing experience with smooth and fluid keystrokes. The Bluish White switch also has mild, stepped, subtle, and polished qualities, while the Milky Yellow Pro may have a textured feel preferred by some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired sound and feel for the keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are a few factors to keep in mind.
If you prioritize a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a light bottom out force, the Bluish White is the way to go. It offers a snappy sound profile and a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel. The low-pitched sound adds a mellow tone to your typing experience.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a budget-friendly all-purpose switch with a medium bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is a fantastic choice. It embodies smoothness and buttery goodness, making it ideal for both gaming and typing. Its low-pitched, bassy, and thocky sound adds a deep and rich element to each key press. The Milky Yellow Pro also offers a buttery feel, but it's worth noting that some users may prefer the textured feel that adds noticeable friction.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and priorities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them suitable for different typing experiences. Whether you desire a poppy tactile switch or a smooth linear switch, you can't go wrong with either the TTC Bluish White or the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
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