KTT Kang White vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both offer exceptional typing experiences in their own right. The Kang White is a linear switch known for its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its budget-friendly price and smooth keystrokes that provide a buttery smoothness and low-pitched "thock" sound. The Kang White is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, making them both viable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
The main difference between the housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) lies in their top housings. The Kang White features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast in sound profiles highlights the importance of housing material in determining the overall typing experience and audio feedback of a switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Kang White and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon as the material of choice. This means that they will both elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon's softness absorbs sound effectively. The similarities in the bottom housings of these switches suggest that the overall feel and sound when bottoming out on the keys will be consistent between them. The use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a rounder and duller sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Kang White.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in shaping the typing experience for users. While the Kang White's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and clearer sound profile, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in both switches creates a consistent deep and full sound when typing. By understanding how different housing materials impact sound profiles, users can choose switches that best suit their preferences for audio feedback and typing feel.
Weight
The KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have similar actuation forces, with both requiring 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Kang White has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's lighter 52 grams. This means that the Kang White offers a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel, while the Milky Red Pro provides a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force of both switches fall within the medium range, offering a balanced typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White 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. When comparing them, both switches provide users with a consistent 4 mm travel distance, ensuring that the typing experience is uniform for each key press. This means that whether you choose the KTT Kang White or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a standard 4 mm travel distance, making them suitable choices for users who prefer consistency in their keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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, the KTT Kang White linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral typing experience, providing a mellow and bass-heavy tone suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch produces a bassy and thocky sound, creating a deep and rich auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. Both switches offer a pleasing sound profile but cater to different preferences, with the Kang White leaning towards a more neutral tone and the Milky Red Pro offering a richer bass sound.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the KTT Kang White's tactile qualities are not specifically mentioned, so we can't provide a comparison in this aspect. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is described as providing a buttery and smooth typing experience, offering a seamless and effortless key press sensation. This can enhance typing comfort and reduce fatigue during extended use, making it a desirable option for those looking for a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Kang White and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. While the Kang White excels in providing a low-pitched and neutral sound with unmatched smoothness, the Milky Red Pro stands out with its bassy and thocky sound and buttery typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing comfort, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different needs. If you enjoy a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Milky Red Pro may be the ideal choice, whereas if you prefer a more mellow and low-pitched sound, the Kang White could be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and are sure to provide satisfying results in your typing endeavors.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preferences for typing sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile that offers unparalleled smoothness when typing, the Kang White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassy and thocky sound profile accompanied by a buttery smooth keystroke experience, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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