TTC Gold Pink vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Gold Pink stands out with its remarkably light 37g actuation force, ideal for those who seek a quick and effortless typing or gaming experience. These switches provide a satisfying level of feedback with a clacky sound, offering a light and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) by Gateron is celebrated for its smooth and budget-friendly linear design, delivering a buttery smooth typing experience accompanied by a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. Both switches are categorized as 'Buttery,' emphasizing their smoothness, but they differentiate in sound profile with the Gold Pink being 'Mild' and 'Feathery,' while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is 'Bassy' and 'Thocky.' 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), one can see distinct differences in the materials used. The Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Milky Red Pro's nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a clearer and more resonant sound, while the softer nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both materials have their own unique qualities, the choice between the two will ultimately depend on the desired sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gold Pink and the Milky Red Pro feature nylon material. This classic switch housing material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, despite the differences in the top housing materials, the bottom housing of both switches will provide a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance in sound when pressing down on the switch and letting go of a key.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) impact the sound profile and feel of the switches. The Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the Milky Red Pro's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. With both switches featuring nylon bottom housing, the typing experience is similar in terms of sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel while typing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Pink is lighter in both aspects. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. This means that the Gold Pink offers a more lightweight typing experience compared to the Milky Red Pro, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Milky Red Pro for its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation point when using either of these switches. The travel distance of 4 mm is considered to be standard for linear switches, providing a smooth keystroke experience for typists and gamers alike. Overall, both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 Pink linear switch offers a clacky sound, providing a satisfying level of feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as having a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, delivering a deep and rich tone during key presses. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference, with the Gold Pink leaning towards a more traditional clacky sound and the Milky Red Pro offering a smoother and richer auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Pink switch is praised for its buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished characteristics, providing a light and effortless typing experience that is comfortable for extended use. In comparison, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is also described as buttery, highlighting its smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that offers a seamless and uniform typing experience. Both switches excel in providing a pleasant tactile feel, with the Gold Pink offering a lighter actuation force compared to the Milky Red Pro.
Overall, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Gold Pink focuses on providing a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, the Milky Red Pro stands out for its smooth and affordable typing experience with a buttery, low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force, ensuring that users can find the perfect switch that suits their typing or gaming needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Pink linear switch or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you should keep a few key points in mind. If you are looking for a light and effortless typing experience with a fast response time ideal for rapid typing or gaming, the Gold Pink with its 37g actuation force may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and budget-friendly option that offers a buttery smoothness and a pleasing low-pitched sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with its 52g bottom out force could be the better choice. Consider your typing preferences, whether you prioritize lightness or smoothness, as well as your sound preference, before making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits, so it depends on what specifically you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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