TTC Ice vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly influence your typing experience, especially between two notable contenders: the TTC Ice and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The TTC Ice is celebrated for its stunning crystal-clear design, delivering a smooth and responsive feel along with a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances its appeal for both gaming and everyday typing tasks. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro stands out as a budget-friendly switch, revered for its buttery smoothness and "thocky" acoustic profile, which creates a plush typing sensation. While the Ice switch caters to users who prioritize aesthetics and a refined typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro appeals to those seeking a versatile, economical option without sacrificing performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) use different housing materials, leading to distinct acoustic profiles in their respective switches. The TTC Ice features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The rigidity of polycarbonate aids in producing a clearer and more resonant sound, making it a suitable choice for enthusiasts seeking a bright auditory experience. This material's translucency also makes it an ideal option for RGB lighting setups, as it allows light to pass through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of keyboards equipped with these switches.
In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes nylon for its top and bottom housings. Known for its softer nature, nylon absorbs sound, creating a deeper, fuller sound profile that contrasts sharply with the Ice's sharper tones. This characteristic results in a more muted and rounded auditory experience. Users of the Milky Yellow Pro may find this favorable for those who prefer a subdued typing sound and feel. Although nylon is a classic switch housing material, its sound-absorbing properties provide a tactile feedback that is distinctly different from what polycarbonate offers.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Ice and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro hinges on one’s personal preference concerning sound and feel. While the Ice’s polycarbonate housings yield a bright and clear auditory experience, the Milky Yellow Pro's nylon housings create a rich and resonant typing experience. If one were to substitute nylon for polycarbonate in both switches, or vice versa, they might achieve similar clarity or depth in sound delivery. However, the distinct acoustic qualities from varying materials would inherently influence the overall typing experience, emphasizing the importance of housing material choice in keyboard design.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, notable differences can be observed in their actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Ice switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it lighter in terms of actuation compared to the Milky Yellow Pro, which requires a 50-gram actuation force and a slightly higher bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions might find the TTC Ice more comfortable. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro offers a slightly heavier feel, which some typists may prefer for a more substantial keystroke experience. Thus, while both switches fall into the medium range overall, the TTC Ice is the lighter option in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it more suitable for those seeking ease of use during extended periods on the keyboard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, the differences are quite distinct. The TTC Ice switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro measures 4 mm, which is the longer travel distance. Generally, the shorter travel distance of the Ice switch can provide quicker response times, appealing to gamers and those who prefer a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the additional depth of the Milky Yellow Pro creates a more traditional typing experience that some users may find more comfortable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus a more substantial bottom-out feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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
The sound characteristics of the TTC Ice linear switch are not explicitly detailed, but it is noted to produce a satisfying bottom-out sound, which contributes to an overall premium typing experience. In comparison, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a distinctively low-pitched, thocky sound that resonates with depth, often described as "bassy." This richer acoustic profile can create an immersive typing environment, making it particularly appealing for users who appreciate a fuller auditory feedback. While the Ice switch likely provides a pleasant sound, the Milky Yellow Pro's acoustic qualities stand out for those who enjoy a more resonant keypress.
In terms of feel, the TTC Ice linear switch is recognized for its smooth and responsive action, suggesting that it delivers a seamless typing experience. This is complemented by the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro's buttery feel, which embodies a fluid and effortless keystroke. Additionally, the Milky Yellow Pro also has a degree of texture that might provide some users with tactile feedback. While the Ice switch likely emphasizes a smoother experience, the Milky Yellow Pro encompasses a combination of smoothness and subtle texture, yielding a versatile feel that excels in both gaming and typing scenarios.
In conclusion, both the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch cater to different preferences while delivering outstanding performance. The Ice provides a premium experience with its crystal-clear design and satisfying bottom-out sound, perfect for users seeking an aesthetically pleasing and smooth option. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro is an all-around switch that excels in auditory and tactile feedback, making it an excellent value choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts. While each switch has its distinct qualities, users can find satisfaction in both options based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch depends largely on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you are looking for a visually striking switch with a crystal-clear design that provides a smooth and satisfying typing experience, while also enhancing the aesthetics of your keyboard, the TTC Ice switch would be the right choice for you. Its responsive feel and pleasant bottom-out sound make it suitable for both gaming and everyday typing, catering well to those who appreciate premium features. On the other hand, if you are in search of an all-around budget-friendly switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) could be your go-to option. Its buttery smoothness and thocky sound profile offer a notably satisfying tactile experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or intense gaming marathons. Ultimately, both switches have their own merits; your decision should reflect the balance between aesthetics, sound, and feel that best aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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