Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, both options offer a smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound. The Milky Red Pro is praised for its buttery feel and budget-friendly price, while the Purple Star is noted for its all-POM construction and light 45g bottom-out, making it ideal for light typists. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Star feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Purple Star utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, delivering an incredibly pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper and more muted end of the spectrum.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Purple Star share some similarities in terms of their impact on sound profile. Both nylon and POM are known for creating a deeper sound, with nylon offering a fuller tone while POM leans towards a more muted sound. This means that users of both switches can expect a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality. Whether it's the softer and rounder sound of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) or the more unique and muted sound of the Purple Star, both switches offer a distinct auditory experience.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the differences between the nylon and POM housing materials of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Purple Star become more apparent. The impact of each housing material on the sound profile is split between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when a key is released. This means that users can expect a nuanced typing experience with each switch, as the qualities of the housing materials interact in different ways depending on how the switch is used. Ultimately, both the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Purple Star offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, we can see that the Milky Red Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Purple Star's 43 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Purple Star is lighter at 50 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams. This means that the Purple Star offers a lighter overall typing experience, while the Milky Red Pro provides a slightly more substantial push feel. Both switches fall within the light to medium-light range, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on whether a user prefers a slightly heavier actuation force or a lighter bottom out force for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Purple Star has a shorter travel distance compared to the Milky Red Pro. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Purple Star for faster response times, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Milky Red Pro. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so users can choose based on their personal preferences for key feedback 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 KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 per 10 switches.
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 known for its low-pitched, bassy, and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a neutral and low-pitched sound signature, delivering a more mellow and gentle typing experience overall. Both switches excel in providing a smooth and buttery keystroke feel, enhancing the overall typing experience for users. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery, ensuring a seamless and fluid typing sensation, while the Purple Star switch is characterized as mild and easy-to-press, making it ideal for light typists seeking comfort and ease of use. In conclusion, while the sound profiles may differ slightly between the two switches, both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Star linear switches offer excellent options for those looking for a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper, bass-heavy sound or a more neutral and gentle sound, you can expect similar levels of smoothness and comfort from either of these switches.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, if you are looking for a smooth and affordable typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The buttery keystrokes and low-pitched "thock" sound it provides make for a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer an even lighter bottom out force and a gentle typing experience, the KTT Purple Star linear switch with its all-POM construction and light 45g bottom-out would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for bottom out force and typing feel, as both switches offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience with their respective characteristics.
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