Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is renowned for its smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, providing a buttery feel and a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out with its innovative internal structure, offering a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi. While the Milky Red Pro excels in affordability and simplicity, the Neptune provides a textured pleasure with its unique "matte" feel and muted sound signature. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Neptune both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Milky Red Pro's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Neptune's POM top housing, which produces a more muted and pleasing sound. However, the Milky Red Pro's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Overall, the housing materials of both switches play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
While the Milky Red Pro and the Neptune have different top and bottom housing materials, they both offer distinct sound profiles that appeal to different preferences. The use of nylon in the Milky Red Pro's top and bottom housing creates a consistent deep and fuller sound, while the Neptune's POM top housing offers a uniquely muted sound profile. In contrast, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing delivers a sharper and clearer sound, complementing the POM top housing. Despite their differences, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Neptune significantly impact the sound profiles of these switches. While the Nylon housing of the Milky Red Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound, the POM and polycarbonate materials of the Neptune offer a muted and sharper sound, respectively. The split between top and bottom housing materials affects the overall typing experience, with each switch showcasing unique qualities that cater to different preferences. In the end, whether you choose the Milky Red Pro or the Neptune, you can expect a distinct sound profile that enhances your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune is the lighter option. The Milky Red Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. The actuation force of the switches determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures how much pressure is needed to press the key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may opt for the Neptune, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Neptune's 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Milky Red Pro offers a slightly deeper press. This may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Neptune's slightly shorter travel distance may be favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is best characterized by its low-pitched, thocky sound profile that offers a deep and satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch produces a muted and thocky sound with a low-pitched tone, providing a quieter and more refined typing ambiance. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) leans towards a richer and deeper sound, the Neptune offers a subtler and more subdued auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and setup, both switches can deliver a pleasing sound output, with the Milky Red Pro being more bass-heavy and the Neptune offering a quieter typing experience overall.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Neptune linear switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and consistent typing sensation. However, the TTC Neptune also adds elements of gummy and frictionless qualities to its feel, offering a unique typing experience akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear while minimising any sense of resistance or friction during key presses. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) focuses more on the buttery aspect, ensuring an effortless and uniform typing sensation without introducing additional tactile elements like gummy or frictionless qualities. Ultimately, both switches excel in delivering a smooth and pleasant typing feel, with the Neptune offering a slightly more varied tactile experience compared to the Milky Red Pro.
Considering the available information, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Neptune linear switches present compelling options for users seeking a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. While the Milky Red Pro emphasizes a deep, thocky sound profile and a purely buttery feel, the Neptune offers a more muted sound signature with additional gummy and frictionless qualities that enhance the typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can expect similar results in terms of smoothness and comfort from both switches, with slight variations in auditory and tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the Milky Red Pro and the Neptune will come down to personal preferences for sound, feel, and any additional tactile elements desired in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and affordable option with a medium-light bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may be the right choice for you. It offers a buttery smoothness and a low-pitched "thock" sound during keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer an ultralight switch with a light bottom out force and a unique matte feel, the TTC Neptune could be more suitable. It provides a frictionless glide and a sensation akin to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer the sound and feel characteristics of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the Neptune. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences, so choose the one that aligns most with your preferences.
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