TTC Gold Red vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both offer a smooth typing experience that enthusiasts appreciate. The Gold Red switch provides a buttery smooth feel with a light-medium level of resistance, along with a snappy sound profile that adds personality without being too loud. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is known for its affordability and smooth keystrokes, creating a buttery smooth typing experience accompanied by a pleasing low-pitched sound. While both switches share similarities in their smoothness and sound profiles, they have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), we see that both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to the nature of nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. However, the Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound.
When analyzing the impact of the housing materials of the two switches on the overall typing experience, we find that the qualities brought by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switches. The bottom housing, being made of nylon for both switches, has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing material, polycarbonate for the Gold Red and nylon for the Milky Red Pro (KS-3), influences the sound produced when releasing a key. This means that the switches may offer slightly different typing experiences based on the combination of housing materials used.
Even though the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of the top housing material used, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience. The Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, both switches benefit from the qualities of nylon in the bottom housing, which contributes to a more cushioned and softened typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with a polycarbonate top housing or a deeper sound with a nylon top housing, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable option for individuals who prefer a light and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a more medium-light touch that may be appealing to those who seek a bit more resistance while typing. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel and are popular choices for keyboard enthusiasts. While the actuation forces and bottom out forces differ slightly between the two, users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience based on their preference for lighter or heavier switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces in order to achieve the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both 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 amount of travel from the top to the bottom. So, whether you choose the TTC Gold Red or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), you can expect a consistent feel in terms of travel distance. In conclusion, both switches offer a similar keypress experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red 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 Red 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
When comparing the sound characteristics of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we can see a similarity in the thocky and low-pitched profiles of both switches. The Gold Red offers a neutral sound profile that is not too overwhelming, while the Milky Red Pro provides a bassy and thocky sound that adds a level of depth to the typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound, both switches can deliver a pleasing auditory feedback during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel aspect, the Gold Red switch is known for its mild, silky, subtle, and polished characteristics, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a light-medium resistance. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switch is described as buttery, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable and smooth typing experience, with the Gold Red offering additional subtleties in resistance and sound feedback.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Red provides a neutral sound profile with a range of subtle characteristics in typing feel, the Milky Red Pro excels in delivering a buttery smooth typing experience with a bassy and thocky sound profile. Depending on your individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a snappy sound profile with a buttery smooth typing experience, the Gold Red switches are a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force with a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience that evokes a low-pitched “thock” sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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