KTT Glimp vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introduction:
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Glimp switch is a linear switch that strikes the perfect balance between typing experience and resistance. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, the Glimp switch offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is a budget-friendly switch that excels in both gaming and typing. Known for its smoothness and buttery goodness, this all-purpose switch offers a low, "thocky" sound profile and satisfyingly thick resistance. Both switches have their own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences and usage scenarios. 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of the top housing material. The Glimp features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate material allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to its aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This creates a duller and rounder sound that some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches use nylon as the material. This results in a similar typing experience for both switches, as nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relative softness of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This aspect contributes to the overall typing experience, providing users with a more satisfying feedback when pressing down on the switch. In both the Glimp and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In summary, the main difference between the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) lies in the top housing material. The Glimp's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, while also allowing for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience. However, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, ensuring a consistent depth and fullness in sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that there are some differences between the two. The Glimp has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 50 grams. This means that the Glimp requires a slightly lighter touch to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Glimp is again lighter with a force of 53 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro requires a heavier force of 62 grams to fully press the keys down.
Considering the weight aspect, the Glimp can be seen as a lighter option, which is suitable for those who prefer a keyboard that allows them to type for extended periods without fatigue. This makes it ideal for professional use or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro offers a stronger push feel with its heavier forces, providing a more substantial typing experience. This can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a bit more resistance and feedback while typing.
Overall, it is clear that the Glimp is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Milky Yellow Pro. However, both switches fall into the medium range of forces, so if a user is looking for a similar experience, they might expect similar results from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience one is seeking.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed down. Both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same level of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring that users will get similar results regardless of the switch they choose. There is no significant difference in the travel distance between the two switches, making them equally suitable for various typing preferences and needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 KTT Glimp switch is known for its clacky sound profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch has a low-pitched and bassy sound. It offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, it is described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you are looking for a clacky sound, the Glimp switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a low-pitched and bass-heavy sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch would be more suitable.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Glimp switch offers a creamy and mild typing experience. The switch is known for its smooth and buttery typing experience, similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. It provides a silky sensation and effortlessly melts into each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery and textured. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. However, it also possesses a noticeable friction when pressed, offering a textured typing experience preferred by some users. If you prefer a creamy and mild typing experience, the Glimp switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery and textured typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch would be more suitable.
In conclusion, the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The Glimp switch has a clacky sound profile, providing a crisp and bright sound when pressed. It offers a creamy and mild typing experience, allowing for a smooth and buttery feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch has a low-pitched, bassy, and thocky sound profile. It provides a buttery and textured typing experience, offering a smooth keystroke with noticeable friction. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a satisfying typing experience without overwhelming resistance and enjoy a clacky sound profile, the KTT Glimp linear switch is the right choice for you. It strikes the perfect balance with its medium-light bottom out force and tactile feedback, making it responsive and enjoyable to use. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget option that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the way to go. With its smooth and buttery goodness, low "thocky" sound, and satisfyingly thick resistance, it offers a versatile and pleasing typing experience. When it comes to sound, the Glimp is described as clacky and neutral, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is characterized as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky. As for feel, the Glimp is creamy and mild, providing a silky and approachable typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is buttery and textured, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke with noticeable friction for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preferences and requirements, but both offer impressive qualities for an enjoyable typing experience.
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