TTC Flaming Purple vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two prominent options stand out: the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), both linear switches with distinct features. The Flaming Purple offers a unique resonant character with a touch of bassiness in its sound signature, making each keystroke engaging and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its smoothness and affordability, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. While both switches have their own strengths and appeal, the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing needs. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
47g
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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it is evident that they both have unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Flaming Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This creates a clear and resonant sound that is ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic material. This creates a rounder and duller sound compared to the polycarbonate housing of the Flaming Purple.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the two switches, both the Flaming Purple and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the bottom housing may not have as much of an impact on the sound as the top housing, it is still an important factor in the overall feel and sound profile of the switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and tactile experience of the switches. While the Flaming Purple's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffness, the Milky Red Pro's nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer material. Both switches provide unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, showcasing the importance of material choice in the design of mechanical switches. Despite their differences, both switches deliver quality sound experiences that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Additionally, the Flaming Purple has a lighter bottom out force of 47 grams, whereas the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a heavier bottom out force of 52 grams. This means that the Flaming Purple switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Flaming Purple may be the better choice. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with its slightly heavier forces may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, the TTC Flaming Purple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro's 4 mm travel distance. The Flaming Purple's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of 4 mm on the Milky Red Pro may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 Purple linear switch is characterized by its bassier undertones and resonant nature, providing a poppy undertone that adds an engaging auditory flair to typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a low-pitched "thock" sound with buttery smoothness for a pleasing typing experience. Both switches fall under the bassy sound profile category, offering users a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by the user's choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is known for its feathery, easy-to-press nature with a bottom-out weight of 47g, making typing swift and effortless. In comparison, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as providing a buttery smooth typing experience, evoking a seamless and uniform sensation. Both switches aim to reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, enhancing the overall typing experience with their smooth and light actuation force. It is important to note that the feel of a switch is subjective and can vary depending on personal preference.
In conclusion, both the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Flaming Purple switch leans towards a bassier sound profile and feathery feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch provides a low-pitched "thock" sound and a buttery typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, tailored to their preference for sound and feel. To achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel, users can experiment with different combinations of keyboards, keycaps, and switches to find their ideal typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you should take into account your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bassier and more resonant sound profile with a feather-light typing experience, the Flaming Purple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery keystroke with a low-pitched thock sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider how sound and feel play a role in your typing experience before making a decision.
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