TTC Flaming Pink vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact both your typing experience and gaming performance. The TTC Flaming Pink switches stand out for their striking combination of a smooth, responsive feel and a pleasant bottom-out sound, making them ideal for users who appreciate a high-quality typing experience without being too loud, as they are categorized as 'Clacky' and 'Silky'. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches offer an affordable option without compromising on smoothness—known for their buttery keystrokes and a satisfying low-pitched “thock” sound, these switches appeal particularly to budget-conscious users seeking a robust tactile experience. While both switches excel in providing a smooth linear feel, their distinct sound profiles and construction cater to different preferences in aesthetics and use cases. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), one can observe contrasting characteristics that significantly influence the switches' sound profiles. The TTC Flaming Pink features a polycarbonate top housing while employing nylon for its bottom housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, producing a more resonant tone when a switch is engaged. This material's translucence also allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, making it an excellent choice for aesthetically minded users. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) opts for a nylon top housing, a material known for its softer attributes, which promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile. This clear divergence between the housing materials results in distinct auditory experiences while typing.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which leads to a similarity in the overall sound profile when the keys are pressed down. As nylon absorbs sound effectively, it creates a duller and rounder sound that appeals to users who prefer a more muted acoustics when typing. With this shared bottom housing material, both the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) deliver a consistent bottom-out feel and sound, regardless of their differing top housings. Thus, while the TTC Flaming Pink’s polycarbonate top adds a sharpness to the sound during key release, the nylon bottom ensures a warm, cushioned experience at actuation.
Ultimately, the contrasting choices of top housing materials provide distinct yet complementary sound profiles for both switches. The TTC Flaming Pink offers a unique combination of sharpness from the polycarbonate top and warmth from the nylon bottom, whereas the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) favors a smoother, deeper tone right from the top. Users can expect a more pronounced and clear sound experience with the Flaming Pink, especially in RGB setups, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) leans into a deeper, fuller acoustic overall. Both switches showcase how different materials at the top and bottom can interact to create a multifaceted typing experience, highlighting the nuanced interplay of sound and feel from varying housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch with the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we see some notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Flaming Pink has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter switch overall. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) requires a slightly stronger actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This makes the Flaming Pink the lighter option, which may be more suitable for users who prefer less resistance for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might gravitate towards the Milky Red Pro due to its heavier forces, providing a different tactile feedback. While both switches have similar bottom out characteristics in terms of pushing to the maximum, the Flaming Pink offers a more effortless actuation, appealing to those who favor lighter switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Flaming Pink features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the Flaming Pink, being the shorter of the two switches, may appeal to gamers or users seeking faster response times and a more immediate actuation. Conversely, the Milky Red Pro provides a more substantial travel distance, which might be preferable for those who enjoy a deeper keystroke and a more tactile typing experience. Therefore, if you favor responsiveness and a swift feel, the TTC Flaming Pink would likely suit your preferences better, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro is more suitable for those who appreciate a more traditional and robust key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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 TTC Flaming Pink switch delivers a bright yet subtle auditory experience characterized by a satisfying bottom-out sound that is not overly loud. This clacky quality offers a crisp, percussive tone that can enhance the typing experience while still being suitable for shared Workspaces. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) presents a different auditory profile, leaning towards a deeper and richer low-pitched sound. Described as thocky, these switches create a soft "thud" upon activation, resonating with a bass-heavy tone that provides a distinct auditory feedback when typing. Thus, while both switches are enjoyable to use, they cater to different sound preferences—one bright and snappy, the other deep and mellow.
In terms of feel, both switches excel in providing a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, but they each have their unique characteristics. The TTC Flaming Pink is recognized for its silky touch, which minimizes resistance and enhances the overall smoothness while typing. This quality can be particularly appealing for users who prioritize a seamless keystroke. Conversely, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is known for its buttery feel, offering a fluid and effortless keystroke experience that mirrors the smooth qualities of the Flaming Pink. Users will find both switches satisfying, although the tactile sensation will vary slightly—silky for one and buttery for the other.
In conclusion, the TTC Flaming Pink and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches both offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that can cater to different preferences. The Flaming Pink provides a brighter, clackier sound with a silky feel, while the Milky Red Pro offers a deeper, thocky sound paired with a buttery smoothness. Ultimately, either switch can deliver a pleasurable typing experience, and users may choose based on personal sound preferences or the desired typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between TTC Flaming Pink and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a lighter feel with a responsive and silky experience, the Flaming Pink switch may be your ideal option. It's especially well-suited for those who enjoy a typing experience that balances both gaming and daily use, thanks to its satisfying bottom-out sound and bright, yet not overwhelming, audio profile. On the other hand, if you're looking for a slightly heavier touch combined with buttery smooth keystrokes and a more bass-rich auditory experience, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) will likely serve you better. Its deeper thocky sound adds a comforting acoustic element, making it a fantastic choice for users who appreciate a more subdued, low-pitched typing experience. Ultimately, consider your typing style, sound preference, and how each switch feels under your fingers—these factors will guide you to the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard.
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