KTT Miaowu vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are both popular options, each offering unique features and benefits. The Miaowu boasts enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action thanks to its latest molds and POK stem, setting it apart from conventional switches. Known for its bouncy and clacky typing experience, the Miaowu switch is a great choice for those who prioritize tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switches are celebrated for their smooth and affordable typing experience. With a buttery smooth keystroke and a low-pitched "thock" sound, these budget-friendly linear switches are categorized as buttery, bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), one notable difference is the use of polycarbonate in the Miaowu's top housing versus nylon in the Milky Red Pro (KS-3). Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer and sound-absorbing properties. This results in a crisper sound from the polycarbonate Miaowu and a rounder sound from the nylon Milky Red Pro (KS-3) when typing on the switches.
Another point of comparison between the two housing materials is in their impact on the overall sound profile of the switches. The Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing offers a clearer and more resonant sound, particularly when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound that is characterized by a deeper tone. Both materials have their own characteristics that influence the sound produced by the switches, catering to different preferences in sound profiles for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
While the top and bottom housings of both the Miaowu and Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilize the same material, nylon, their placement within the switches can affect the typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This shows how the distribution of housing materials within a switch can play a role in creating a unique typing experience tailored to individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. Both switches fall within the lighter to medium-light range of force, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The weight of a switch is important as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Some users may appreciate the Miaowu's lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the Milky Red Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. With the Miaowu being shorter in travel distance, it offers a quicker response time which can be advantageous for gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switch with its longer travel distance can provide a more pronounced and satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Miaowu switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch offers a bassy and thocky sound with low-pitched tones, giving a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Miaowu leaning towards a crisper and brighter sound, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a smoother and more bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Miaowu switch is known for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like sensation with a lively feel and rebound when pressed. In comparison, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless, effortless, and uniform. While the Miaowu switch focuses on providing a more lively and springy feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch prioritizes a consistent and smooth typing sensation.
Overall, the KTT Miaowu and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a clacky and bouncy experience with the Miaowu or a bassy and buttery feel with the Milky Red Pro (KS-3), both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, either switch can offer a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience with their respective qualities. Ultimately, if you enjoy one switch, you are likely to get similar results with the other in terms of overall satisfaction while typing.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch with enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, then the Miaowu switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-light bottom out force switch that offers a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound, then the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize stem stability and lightness in key presses or a smooth and affordable typing experience with a pleasing sound profile. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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