TTC Brother vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro linear switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The TTC Brother stands out for its lightweight and easy-to-press actuation, providing a tactile and satisfyingly crunchy experience for clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro excels in smoothness and buttery goodness, with a low, "thocky" sound that is perfect for both gaming and typing. While the Brother offers a distinct tactile bump and crisp precision, the Milky Yellow Pro provides a more subdued and versatile typing experience. 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
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Brother and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound compared to softer plastics like nylon. The use of polycarbonate in the Brother's top housing is particularly advantageous for those seeking improved RGB lighting effects, thanks to its translucency. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with a nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tonal quality.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Brother and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The nylon bottom housing of these switches helps absorb sound and creates a rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly noticeable when bottoming out the key, as it influences the overall sound and feel of the switch. While both switches share this similar bottom housing material, the differences in their top housings (polycarbonate for the Brother and nylon for the Milky Yellow Pro) result in distinctive sound characteristics when pressing and releasing the keys.
Overall, the choice between the Brother and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the Brother offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience, especially with RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more rounded tonal quality. Both switches benefit from the sound-absorbing properties of nylon in their bottom housings, ensuring a consistent and satisfying typing experience with a focus on different sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Brother is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Brother's force is unknown while the Milky Yellow Pro requires 62 grams, indicating it is heavier in this aspect. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Brother switch, which allows for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue setting in. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and satisfying typing feel may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with both switches offering unique advantages based on their respective force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky 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 this case, the Milky Yellow Pro switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Brother switch. The Brother switch falls within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a slightly deeper press, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 Brother clicky switch offers a crunchy and crisp sound signature that is highly satisfying for fans of clicky switches, resembling the sound of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a bass-heavy and thocky sound that is deep, rich, and slightly lower-pitched, offering a different auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the light and crisp click of the Brother or the smooth and bassy sound of the Milky Yellow Pro.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a low-impact typing experience. It also features a stepped feel, providing a mild tactile response with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery and textured, delivering a smooth and friction-free typing experience that is uniform and effortless. Users can enjoy the gentle resistance of the Brother or the smooth keystrokes of the Milky Yellow Pro, depending on their typing style and preferences.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Brother excels in providing a crisp and tactile click with easy actuation, while the Milky Yellow Pro delivers a smooth and buttery typing experience with a thocky sound profile. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing needs, ensuring users can find the perfect switch for their mechanical keyboard setup. If you prefer a loud and tactile experience, the Brother is the way to go. If you lean towards a smoother and more uniform typing feel, the Milky Yellow Pro is a solid choice. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance in their respective categories, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a satisfyingly crunchy sound and a lightweight, easy-to-press key feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is the way to go. Its tactile bump and crisp actuation make it a delightful choice for clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness, "thocky" sound, and a medium bottom out force, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is a budget-friendly option that excels in both gaming and typing scenarios. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and ease of use.
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