TTC Gold Pink vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Gold Pink is known for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, making it one of the lightest switches available. This switch is perfect for those who value a fast and effortless typing experience, whether for rapid typing or gaming. Its clacky sound provides a satisfying level of feedback, resulting in a light and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing. This all-rounder linear switch embodies smoothness and buttery goodness, with a low "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance. It's no surprise that budget enthusiasts often gravitate towards these Milky Yellows. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, enhancing clarity and resonance. Additionally, the Gold Pink's translucency makes it compatible with RGB lighting, adding to its visual appeal. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound. While both switches have top housings with unique characteristics, they share the advantage of being compatible with RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housings, the Gold Pink and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) both utilize nylon as the material of choice. This common feature contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Whether using the Gold Pink or the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), the nylon bottom housing ensures an enhanced acoustic experience during typing.
When it comes to the impact on sound and feel, the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) show a division between their top and bottom housings. Pressing down on these switches primarily highlights the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing's absorbent nature contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience when keys are pressed. Conversely, the impact of the top housing becomes more prominent when releasing a key, influencing the sound at that moment. While the specific housing materials differ, this distinction in sound dynamics is a common trait between both switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are notable differences in both the actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Pink requires a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a higher actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Gold Pink switch will register keystrokes with a lighter touch, which can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a more lightweight typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force, which may provide a more substantial typing feel.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Gold Pink has a lower force requirement of 45 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) necessitates a higher force of 62 grams. This difference indicates that the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch will provide a firmer bottoming out experience, where the keys are pressed all the way down with a greater force. Comparatively, the Gold Pink switch allows for a slightly lighter pressure when fully depressing the keys.
In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience would likely gravitate towards the Gold Pink switch, as it has a lower actuation and bottom out force. This lighter touch can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. However, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out force.
In summary, while the Gold Pink switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. The choice between the two hinges on personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter touch or a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Pink 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, you will feel the same distance of travel for both switches. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance when using either of these switches.
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 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 Pink linear switch offers a clacky sound, providing a satisfying level of feedback during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro produces a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It also has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, resulting in a satisfyingly deep "thud" or soft "knock" sound. However, it's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. They have a gentle resistance that is not feather-light, but still maintain a light typing feel. The Gold Pink switches also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switch is described as buttery and textured. This indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, similar to the Gold Pink switch, but some users might prefer the noticeable friction that the Milky Yellow Pro switch offers.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that both the TTC Gold Pink and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Pink switch is known for its clacky sound and all-around light and lively typing experience. It provides a gentle resistance and a smooth, polished finish. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switch offers a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound, providing a deeper and richer typing experience. It is also buttery in terms of feel, but some users might prefer the noticeable texture it offers. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a light and effortless typing experience, with a satisfying level of feedback, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is the choice for you. These switches are perfect for rapid typing or gaming, thanks to their 37g actuation force. They provide a light and lively typing experience that will keep your fingers comfortable even during extended typing sessions. In terms of sound, the Gold Pink switch is characterized by a clacky sound, adding to the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a budget option that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is your go-to choice. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches offer a satisfyingly thick resistance, resulting in a smooth and buttery typing sensation. The low, "thocky" sound of the Milky Yellow Pro switch adds to the overall typing experience, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Gold Pink and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switches comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a clacky sound, go for the Gold Pink. If you want a budget-friendly switch that provides a smooth and buttery typing experience with a "thocky" sound, the Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go. Both switches offer their own unique benefits and excel in different areas, so consider your typing preferences and budget when making your choice.
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