TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, each offers unique features and benefits. The Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility, with a seamless typing experience and a neutral sound signature that suits various environments. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is renowned for its budget-friendly nature, boasting smoothness, a "thocky" sound, and thick resistance perfect for gaming and typing. While both switches have their own strengths and appeal, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the best switch for your 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), one key difference is seen in the top housing composition. The Gold Red Pro uses a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a clear and resonant sound, the Milky Yellow Pro's nylon top housing provides a duller and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Gold Red Pro and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) feature nylon bottom housings. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softness. Therefore, the bottom housing of both switches contributes to the overall sound and feel of typing, resulting in a more rounded sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Despite the difference in top housing materials, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housings in these switches ensures a similar level of sound absorption and impact on typing experience.
In summary, while the Gold Red Pro and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) may differ in their top housing materials, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, with the impact of the bottom housing being more prominent during typing. The Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing leads to a sharper and crisper sound, contrasting with the Milky Yellow Pro's nylon top housing, which offers a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for the type of sound profile desired during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow Pro is the heavier option. The Gold Red Pro has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a higher actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Gold Red Pro's force is unknown, while the Milky Yellow Pro has a bottom out force of 62 grams. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Red Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may lean towards the heavier actuation force of the Milky Yellow Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear 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 Red Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Milky Yellow Pro. The 0.2 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but for some users, it can impact the typing experience. Those who prefer a quicker and more responsive keystroke may lean towards the Gold Red Pro, while individuals who enjoy a bit more depth and feedback may opt for the Milky Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red 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 Red 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
When it comes to sound qualities, the Gold Red Pro and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offer different auditory experiences. The Gold Red Pro provides a neutral, low-pitched sound profile that is neither too loud nor too quiet, catering to a wide range of users and environments. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) produces a bassy, thocky sound that is deeper and richer, bringing a sense of satisfaction with each keystroke. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Gold Red Pro is known for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle characteristics, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance and minimal friction. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is praised for its buttery feel, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation that is uniform and fluid. While the Gold Red Pro focuses on a gentle and polished typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) emphasizes a smooth and buttery key press, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches each offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red Pro provides a neutral sound signature and a polished typing experience, ideal for those seeking versatility and adaptability. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) stands out with its bassy sound profile and buttery feel, perfect for users looking for a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches excel in different aspects, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences and typing styles to achieve similar, high-quality results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize versatility, a neutral sound profile, and a smooth typing experience suitable for various settings, the Gold Red Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you're seeking a classic budget switch with a "thocky" sound, buttery smoothness, and a balance of gaming and typing capabilities, the Milky Yellow Pro could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, whether you opt for the TTC Gold Red Pro or the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and usage scenarios.
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