KTT Matcha vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro linear switch. The KTT Matcha switch is known for its comfortable, snappy tactility, providing a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch from Gateron offers a smooth typing experience with buttery smoothness and a low-pitched “thock” sound, all at an affordable price point. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it is evident that they both offer distinct sound profiles based on their respective materials. The Matcha's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top and bottom housings produce a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This leads to a duller and rounder sound when compared to the polycarbonate housing of the Matcha.
While the Matcha and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offer different sound profiles based on their housing materials, they both provide unique benefits. The polycarbonate housing of the Matcha allows for a more vibrant and colorful experience when used with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a classic typing experience with a deeper sound profile. Both materials have their own strengths, catering to different preferences in terms of sound and feel while typing.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While the polycarbonate housing of the Matcha provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, the nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a deeper and fuller sound. Whether one prefers a more clear and resonant typing experience or a duller and rounder sound, both switches cater to various typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a relatively light bottom out force, with the Matcha at 45 grams and the Milky Red Pro at 52 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Matcha may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, while the slightly heavier actuation force of the Milky Red Pro may provide a bit more feedback for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Matcha being lighter and the Milky Red Pro being slightly heavier, making them suitable for different preferences.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key using either of these switches, users can expect to feel the same amount of travel distance, resulting in a similar typing experience. The consistent travel distance of 4 mm in both switches ensures that users will get consistent feedback and response while typing, whether they are using the Matcha or the Milky Red Pro (KS-3). Overall, the travel distance of these switches is the same, providing users with a familiar typing sensation regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 Matcha switch is described as producing a clacky sound, known for its sharp and snappy quality, with a crisp, bright, and percussive tone when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, with a low-pitched tone that delivers a deep, rich, and satisfying sound during key presses. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Matcha focusing on a clean bottom-out sound and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) emphasizing a pleasing, low-pitched thock.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Matcha switch is described as featuring stepped tactility, providing a two-stage feel that is mild in comparison to hyper-tactile switches. It also offers a snappy and accented typing experience, with feathery actuation and subtle resistance for reduced finger fatigue and a gentle typing feel suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is known for its buttery smoothness, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation that is smooth and fluid throughout the keystroke without any tactile feedback.
Overall, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Matcha switch provides a clacky sound and stepped, snappy feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch offers a bassy, thocky sound and a buttery smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, whether you prefer a tactile response with a clean sound or a linear switch with a smooth and buttery feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you enjoy a light yet snappy tactile typing experience with a clean bottom-out sound, then the KTT Matcha would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and budget-friendly linear switch option with a buttery typing sensation and a low-pitched "thock" sound, then the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) might be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing feel and sound preferences, so choose the switch that aligns with your individual needs and desired typing experience.
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