KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two distinct options. The Cream Yellow offers a unique and bouncy typing experience with a distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a smooth and affordable typing experience with buttery smooth keystrokes and a pleasing, low-pitched “thock” sound. Both switches have their own characteristics and strengths, making them appealing choices for different preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This material choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches, making them ideal for those who prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience.
While both switches share nylon for their bottom housing, the Cream Yellow sets itself apart with its polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to nylon. This is particularly beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the lighting to shine through more effectively. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its bottom housing. This choice provides a consistent typing experience across the switch, with a focus on absorbing sound for a quieter typing experience overall.
Overall, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of both the Cream Yellow and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches. While the Cream Yellow's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique sound profile with a sharper and crisper tone, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) opts for a more consistent sound profile with nylon housing throughout. Both switches offer a smooth and quiet typing experience, but the difference in housing materials provides distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Cream Yellow requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow is also heavier at 58 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow offers a slightly firmer typing experience with a higher actuation force and bottom out force, while the Milky Red Pro provides a lighter and more effortless keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Milky Red Pro may be the better choice, while the Cream Yellow would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, providing a medium to medium-light typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cream Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Milky Red Pro. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Cream Yellow due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper keypress feeling may lean towards the Milky Red Pro with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 KTT Cream Yellow linear switch offers a distinctively clacky experience with its sharp and snappy keypress sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a low-pitched "thock" sound that is smooth and buttery. While both switches offer different sound profiles, users can expect satisfying auditory feedback from either choice, with the Cream Yellow being more percussive and the Milky Red Pro producing a deeper and richer tone.
Moving on to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its bouncy typing sensation, thanks to its lengthened spring design that provides a spring-like and elastic feedback. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch offers a buttery smooth typing experience, emphasizing a seamless and effortless keystroke feel. Whether you prefer a more lively and rebounding keypress like the Cream Yellow or a uniform and fluid typing sensation like the Milky Red Pro, both switches cater to different tactile preferences.
In conclusion, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different user preferences. While the Cream Yellow provides a clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Milky Red Pro delivers a low-pitched thock sound and buttery smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a sharper, snappier sound and bouncy feel or a smoother, richer sound and buttery feel. However, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results in terms of overall performance and enjoyment.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lower bottom out force and a smooth, buttery keystroke sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Whether you prioritize a clacky and bouncy feel or a smooth and buttery typing sensation, both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
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