Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch. The Milky Red Pro is praised for its buttery smooth keystrokes and low-pitched "thock" sound, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click offers a high-pitched, satisfying click with light keystrokes and pronounced tactility, striking a balance between feedback and noise. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal to different preferences. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Click both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a deeper, fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple Click utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro offers a duller and rounder sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Click provides a more clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Milky Red Pro and Purple Click use nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures consistency in sound and feel when typing on these switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Milky Red Pro and KTT Purple Click differ in material, the qualities each housing material brings to the switch are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles, showcasing how housing materials can play a crucial role in switch performance.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro requires 52 grams, while the Purple Click needs 55 grams. Both switches fall into the category of medium-light actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Purple Click, as it has a slightly lighter actuation force. In contrast, those looking for a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Milky Red Pro with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on either of these switches, you will experience the same travel distance of 4mm from top to bottom. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Milky Red Pro or the KTT Purple Click, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels when actuated.
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 KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch produces a bassy and thocky low-pitched sound, offering a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is described as having a crunchy and resonant high-pitched sound, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. The Milky Red Pro switch leans towards a smoother and more mellow tone, while the Purple Click switch provides a sharper and cleaner sound profile, making it more immersive for some users.
Moving on to feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch offers a buttery typing experience, characterized by a smooth and fluid keystroke that provides a seamless and effortless sensation. In contrast, the Purple Click switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. Additionally, it is noted to have a stepped feel, providing a tactile sensation with two stages in the keystroke. While the Milky Red Pro switch focuses on a uniform and gentle typing experience, the Purple Click switch delivers a more tactile and responsive feedback for users who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between a smooth and bassy typing experience with the Milky Red Pro switch or a crisp and resonant feel with the Purple Click switch. Both switches cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that aligns with their desired auditory and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched “thock” sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a high-pitched, satisfying click paired with a balance of light keystrokes and pronounced tactility, the Purple Click switch would be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switches.
Mentioned in this article
