KTT Hyacinth vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and characteristics. The Hyacinth is a linear switch that stands out for its 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a comfortable typing experience without the hard bottoming-out sensation common in longer-stem switches. With a single-stage elongated spring and a focus on a consistent force curve, the Hyacinth offers balanced tactile feedback and an auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its budget-friendly price and smooth keystrokes that provide buttery smoothness and a satisfying low-pitched thock sound. While the Hyacinth is categorized as neutral, silky, and subtle, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is labeled as buttery, bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. Both switches have unique selling points; however, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), we see a clear difference in the materials used. The Hyacinth boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. While the polycarbonate provides a more resonant sound due to its stiffness, the nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. This contrast highlights the impact that housing materials can have on the overall sound profile of a switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Hyacinth and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a more muted and rounded sound compared to the sharper and clearer sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth. Despite the differences in the top housing materials, the use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While the Hyacinth's polycarbonate top housing creates a more resonant and clear sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller tone. However, with both switches using nylon for the bottom housing, the typing experience remains consistent in terms of sound profile. Understanding how different housing materials affect sound production can help enthusiasts choose a switch that best suits their preferences for typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, the Hyacinth has a slightly higher bottom out force of 56 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams, giving it a slightly heavier feel when fully pressing down. The difference in bottom out force may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Overall, both switches fall into the medium-light category, with the Hyacinth being slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Hyacinth has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can have a noticeable impact on the feel and performance of the switch. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and specific needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 KTT Hyacinth offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) produces a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound that provides a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory experience during key presses. The choice between the two switches will heavily depend on your preference for sound, as well as factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Hyacinth switch provides a silky and subtle typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless, effortless, and uniform. The decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
Overall, both the KTT Hyacinth and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Hyacinth provides a neutral sound profile and a silky typing experience, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch delivers a bassy sound and a buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as your specific typing needs and environment. Despite their differences, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience for any user.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a design that aims for an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort, along with a preference for a more consistent force curve, the Hyacinth may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched “thock” sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire.
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