TTC Flame Red vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both stand out as exceptional linear options. The Flame Red is renowned for its visual appeal, boasting a dazzling light diffuser that enhances any RGB keyboard setup. In terms of feel and sound, typing on Flame Reds offers a weighty smoothness and a distinctive clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switches from Gateron are praised for their affordability and smooth keystrokes, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a satisfying low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Flame Red leans towards a 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished' category, the Milky Red Pro falls into the 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched' range. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This means that users can expect similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and overall typing experience when using these switches. The softer nature of nylon allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a more satisfying typing experience for users.
Despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, there may be subtle differences in sound and feel due to the design and construction of each switch. The qualities of the housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that users may notice variations in the typing experience based on how the nylon material is utilized in each switch. While both the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offer a similar sound profile, these subtle differences in housing design could result in varying levels of typing satisfaction for users.
Overall, the nylon housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provide a classic switch housing experience. The softer nature of nylon allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more satisfying sound when typing on these switches. While the specifics of how the nylon material is utilized in each switch may influence the overall typing experience, users can generally expect a similar level of sound quality and feel when using either of these switches. Ultimately, both switches offer a solid typing experience with the use of nylon housing materials, catering to users who value a smooth and consistent typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Flame Red requires a slightly heavier force of 54 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams. This difference means that while both switches are relatively light for typing or gaming for extended periods, the Flame Red may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance when fully pressing down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for the amount of force needed for typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, the distance the switch travels from top to bottom will be consistent. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and typing experience from both switches. While it may seem that there is no significant difference in terms of travel distance between the two switches, the similarity ensures that users can achieve comparable results in terms of keypress feel and response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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
The TTC Flame Red linear switch is best known for its dazzling light diffuser, making it perfect for backlit, RGB keyboards. When typing on the Flame Reds, users experience a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is praised for its smooth keystrokes that deliver a buttery smoothness paired with a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound. The Flame Red switch offers a neutral sound with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for a wide range of users, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch provides a deeper, richer, and bassier sound experience that is accompanied by a satisfying "thock" sound. In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. Conversely, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is labeled as buttery, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation for users.
Overall, while the Flame Red and Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches offer different sound and feel experiences, both switches aim to provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a weighty smoothness, the Flame Red may be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a richer and bassier sound accompanied by a buttery smooth typing sensation, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch would be a great option for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel while typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the key factors that differentiate them. If you prioritize a visually appealing backlit keyboard with a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, the Flame Red would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for visual aesthetics, typing feel, and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
