TTC Flame Red vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Flame Red and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Flame Red is well-known for its dazzling light diffuser, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on these switches offers a weighty smoothness and a distinct clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro embodies a classic budget switch, offering smoothness and buttery goodness. With its low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, it excels in both gaming and typing, making it the perfect all-purpose switch for budget enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This allows both switches to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known to absorb more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches create a duller and rounder sound, providing a satisfying typing experience.
The similarities between the two switches in terms of housing materials means that users can expect similar results from both. The nylon top housing of both switches will contribute to the sound when a key is released, delivering a distinct and satisfying sound profile. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of both switches will impact the bottom-out sound and feel, giving users a consistent and pleasing typing experience.
Despite their similarities, it's important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ for a specific switch, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the bottom housing will have a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will play a larger role in the sound when a key is released. Understanding these nuances can help users make an informed decision when choosing between the TTC Flame Red and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches based on their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, their actuation forces and bottom out forces differ slightly. The Flame Red has a lower actuation force of 45 grams, meaning it requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have medium-light actuation forces, but the Flame Red offers a slightly lighter touch. Moving on to bottom out forces, the Flame Red requires 54 grams of force to fully press down, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) requires 62 grams. Thus, the Flame Red is also lighter in terms of bottom out force. If one prefers a keyboard with a lighter weight for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, the Flame Red would be a suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may be more appealing. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer slightly different experiences, with the Flame Red being lighter in both aspects.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, you will experience a similar distance of travel for both switches. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
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 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 Flame Red is a neutral switch, which means it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is described as having a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This sound profile is more pronounced and may provide a more satisfying auditory experience during key presses compared to the Flame Red. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Flame Red is described as a mild switch, offering a gentle typing experience. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone, providing an approachable feel to most users. Additionally, the Flame Red is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish, leading to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is characterized as buttery and textured. This means that it offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. However, some users may notice a subtle texture or noticeable friction when pressing these switches, which could be preferred by some and not preferred by others.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer unique qualities, they differ in terms of sound and feel. The Flame Red provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile with a neutral feel and a polished finish. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) excels in both gaming and typing with its low, thocky, and bassy sound profile and a buttery, textured feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences and specific use cases.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who prioritizes visual aesthetics and enjoys the experience of a backlit keyboard, the Flame Red switches would be an excellent choice. These switches not only offer a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile but also come with a dazzling light diffuser that enhances the overall visual appeal of your keyboard. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches are perfect for you. These switches are known for their smoothness and buttery goodness, providing a satisfyingly thick resistance and a low, "thocky" sound. Whether you are a beginner or advanced user, whether you use your keyboard at home or work, the Milky Yellow Pro switches offer a versatile and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between TTC Flame Red linear switches and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro linear switches depends on your priorities and preferences in terms of visual appeal, sound profile, and typing feel.
Mentioned in this article
