TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro 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, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The Gold Brown Pro offers a subtle and nuanced tactile feedback, allowing typists to stay focused on their tasks without being distracted by loud keystrokes. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is a budget-friendly linear switch known for its smoothness and satisfying resistance, making it ideal for both gaming and typing. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal, catering to different preferences and 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), we see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches allows for a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the Gold Brown Pro features a polycarbonate top housing while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown Pro contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. These differences in top housing material will impact the sound and feel of typing on each switch, with the Gold Brown Pro offering a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the duller and rounder sound of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3).
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may come down to personal preference in sound profile. If you prefer a sharper and crisper typing experience, the Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top housing may be the better option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its nylon top housing could be more appealing. Both switches share the advantage of a nylon bottom housing, providing a consistent deep and full sound upon bottoming out. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Milky Yellow Pro is higher at 62 grams, while the bottom out force for the Gold Brown Pro is unknown. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Brown Pro for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Milky Yellow Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gold Brown Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Milky Yellow Pro. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch when typing or gaming. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gold Brown Pro, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is best described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, resulting in a subtle and quiet typing experience perfect for those who prefer a less obtrusive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a bassy and thocky sound, providing a deep and rich typing experience that resonates with those who enjoy a more prominent sound profile during keystrokes. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Gold Brown Pro offering a more understated approach and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) delivering a more distinct and satisfying sound.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is known for its polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped characteristics, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance and minimal friction. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery and textured, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke with noticeable friction that may appeal to those who enjoy a slightly more tactile typing feel. While the Gold Brown Pro focuses on a polished and subtle typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) emphasizes a buttery smoothness with a hint of texture for added feedback.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Brown Pro provides a quiet and gentle tactile typing experience with a subdued sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a refined and understated feedback. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) delivers a more prominent and satisfying sound with a buttery smooth typing feel that appeals to users seeking a slightly more tactile and distinct keystroke. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to a variety of typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it all comes down to your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you value a subtle tactile experience with a subdued sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro is the way to go. Its gentle tactile bump allows for a distraction-free typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more understated tactile feel. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smooth and budget-friendly linear switch with a low, "thocky" sound, the Milky Yellow Pro is the ideal choice. Its buttery smoothness and satisfying resistance make it a versatile option for both gaming and typing. Ultimately, consider your preferences for tactility and sound when choosing between these two switches.
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