TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique qualities catering to different preferences. The Light Cloud V2 stands out for its silent operation and refined typing feel, making it a great choice for those looking for a delicate and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its smooth and affordable typing experience, with buttery smooth keystrokes and a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. While both switches have their strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) use nylon as their top and bottom housing materials, resulting in a similar typing experience for users of both switches. The use of nylon in the housing of these switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This results in a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a quieter keyboard.
While both switches use nylon for their housing materials, the differences in design and construction may still result in variations in sound and feel. The qualities of the bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, even though both switches use the same housing material, the overall typing experience may still differ based on how the materials are utilized in the switch design.
Overall, the use of nylon in the housing materials of both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers users a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a quieter and more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a duller and rounder sound. While the design of the switches may lead to slight variations in sound and feel, the shared use of nylon as the housing material ensures that users can expect a comparable level of performance and quality from both switches.
Weight
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Light Cloud V2 is heavier with 58 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams, making the Milky Red Pro a lighter option overall. The Light Cloud V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the Milky Red Pro offers a slightly lighter touch, which is preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. Both switches offer a medium actuation force suitable for various typing preferences, providing similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes efficiently.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Light Cloud V2 offers a slightly quicker key press experience compared to the Milky Red Pro. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Light Cloud V2 for its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the Milky Red Pro to be more satisfying due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Light Cloud V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Cloud V2 for $5.49.
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 TTC Light Cloud V2 offers a muted and neutral typing experience, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) produces a bassey, thocky, and low-pitched sound during key presses, offering a deep and rich auditory experience. The choice between the two switches in terms of sound would depend on whether you prefer a quieter and softer typing experience (Light Cloud V2) or a more satisfying and bass-heavy sound profile (Milky Red Pro (KS-3)).
When it comes to feel, the Light Cloud V2 provides a mild, easy-to-press, and feathery typing experience, offering a gentle and effortless keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is described as buttery, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the lighter actuation force of the Light Cloud V2 might be more suitable for those looking to reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is ideal for those seeking a delicate and nuanced typing experience with a muted sound profile, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is a budget-friendly option for a smooth and affordable typing experience with a satisfying and bass-heavy sound profile. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a pleasant typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar satisfactory results with both options.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a refined, nuanced typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a muted, neutral sound profile, the Light Cloud V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, affordable typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force and a buttery, bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the perfect match for your preferences. Each switch offers unique characteristics tailored to different typing preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your desired typing experience.
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