KTT Kang White vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White 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, two popular options to consider are the KTT Kang White, a linear switch, and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), also a linear switch. The Kang White is highly regarded for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, delivering a dazzling typing sound. Furthermore, its self-lubricating material provides an unparalleled smoothness during typing. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro showcases itself as a classic budget switch from Gateron, offering smoothness and buttery goodness. With a low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, it excels in both gaming and typing, making it the go-to switch for budget enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
62g
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 housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) showcase distinct characteristics. The Kang White features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its stiff nature enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the polycarbonate housing is ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) boasts a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Kang White and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon as a classic material choice. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound in both switches.
The biggest difference lies in the top housings. While the Kang White's polycarbonate top housing enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound when releasing a key, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound upon key release. Essentially, the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in the sound and feel. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key.
To summarize, the Kang White and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in their housing materials. The Kang White's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, resulting in similar deep and full sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Kang White has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the 50 grams required for the Milky Yellow Pro. In terms of bottom out force, the Kang White requires 58 grams while the Milky Yellow Pro requires 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force category, providing a balance between lightness and strength.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Kang White would be the better choice as it requires less force for both actuation and bottom out. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where fatigue may become a factor. On the other hand, if a more substantial and substantial typing experience is desired, the Milky Yellow Pro would be the suitable option, as it requires slightly more force for both actuation and bottom out.
Overall, while there are slight differences in the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kang White and Milky Yellow Pro switches, they both fall within the medium range and offer similar results. The ultimate decision between the two switches would depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and comfortable travel distance, allowing for smooth and efficient typing experiences. Whether you choose the KTT Kang White or the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
The KTT Kang White linear switch is praised for its dazzling typing sound, which is described as low-pitched. Low-pitched switches tend to have a bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound, with a thocky element. Thocky switches produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, similar to a deep "thud" or soft "knock." Both switches offer a pleasant sound experience, but the Kang White has a more poppy typing sound while the Milky Yellow Pro offers a deeper and richer sound.
When it comes to feel, the Kang White does not have specific information available. However, the Milky Yellow Pro is described as buttery, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Butteriness implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, ensuring that each press feels effortless. Additionally, textured switches refer to noticeable friction when pressed. While the Milky Yellow Pro's description does not mention a specific texture, some users might prefer a subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
In conclusion, both the KTT Kang White and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Kang White stands out for its dazzling and poppy typing sound, along with its self-lubricating material which results in an unparalleled smoothness. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro excels as a budget-friendly switch with a low-pitched, bassy, and thocky sound profile. It offers a buttery feel, which ensures a smooth and effortless typing experience. Depending on your sound and feel preferences, both switches provide satisfying options for various typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch that offers a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, the KTT Kang White linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 58 grams and low-pitched sound profile, it provides a mellow tone that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, if you are seeking a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be the ideal option. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, bassy sound profile, and buttery feel, it offers a satisfyingly thick resistance and smooth typing experience. As a result, the Milky Yellow Pro has become the go-to switch for budget enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for sound and feel, as both provide excellent performance and value.
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