TTC Gold Brown vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) stand out as popular options with their unique characteristics. The Gold Brown offers a balanced typing experience with a slight bump and moderate weightiness, resulting in a satisfying yet softer sound profile. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switches provide a smooth and affordable typing experience with buttery smooth keystrokes and a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Gold Brown is praised for its balanced feel, the Milky Red Pro stands out for its smoothness and budget-friendly nature. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), we see that the Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded and duller typing sound. While both materials have their unique sound characteristics, the choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference for sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Gold Brown and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. This means that both switches will have a similar impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, providing a consistent and satisfying typing experience regardless of the brand. The use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a quieter and more muted sound when compared to harder plastics, making it a popular choice for those looking for a more subdued typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) will come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which offer a similar impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether you prefer a clear and resonant sound or a duller and rounder sound, both switches provide quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we see some differences in weight. The Gold Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Gold Brown at 63 grams is heavier than the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. The Milky Red Pro is lighter both in actuation and bottom out force, making it a better option for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches provide a medium to medium-light feel, offering similar results in terms of responsiveness and typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for weight and feel.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results when using either switch, as the travel distance remains constant. So, whether you choose the TTC Gold Brown or the Gateron Milky Red Pro, you can expect the same level of key travel experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offers a balanced and moderate sound profile, with a softer tone that is generally pleasing without being completely silent. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a bassier and thockier sound with a lower pitch, giving a deeper and richer typing experience. The sound of both switches is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so it ultimately depends on personal preference.
Moving on to feel, the Gold Brown switch is known for its mild and approachable tactile feedback, offering a gentle typing experience with a balanced amount of tactility. It is also described as buttery and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing sensation. In comparison, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is also described as buttery, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke without much tactile feedback. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Gold Brown may appeal more to those who prefer a slightly more pronounced tactile feel.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Brown switch offers a balanced sound profile and mild tactile feedback, while the Milky Red Pro switch provides a bassier sound and a buttery smooth keystroke. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches can deliver satisfying results with the right setup. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and how each switch complements your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a balanced typing experience with a moderate bump and weightiness, the Gold Brown may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and budget-friendly option with a buttery keystroke and low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the ideal choice. Consider the actuation force, sound profile, and feel of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that suits your typing needs best.
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