Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, it's important to understand their unique characteristics to make an informed decision. The Milky Red Pro switches are praised for their smooth and affordable typing experience, offering a buttery smoothness and a satisfying low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switches by KTT are known for their progressive spring and dry-lube design, providing a similarly smooth typing experience with a more neutral profile. While both switches offer a smooth and pleasant typing experience, they have distinct qualities that may 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, we can see that they both feature nylon bottom housings. This means that typing on these switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes nylon, while the Sea Salt Lemon features polycarbonate. The Milky Red Pro's nylon top housing will create a duller and rounder sound, while the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound.
When looking at the aesthetic aspect, the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing offers a clear housing design, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of transparency for RGB lighting effects. However, both switches share the quality of utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, which contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile experienced while typing on these switches. Despite the difference in top housing materials, both switches provide a unique typing experience based on the qualities of their respective top and bottom housings.
In terms of sound and feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches will result in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel when bottoming out. However, the difference in top housing materials between the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Sea Salt Lemon will lead to distinct sound profiles when releasing a key, with the Milky Red Pro offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of the Sea Salt Lemon.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, we find that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Milky Red Pro has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 52 grams compared to the Sea Salt Lemon's 53 grams. This difference is minimal, making the typing experience on both switches quite comparable. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milky Red Pro, while those who prefer a slightly heavier feel may opt for the Sea Salt Lemon. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that they will both provide a similar typing experience when it comes to the key travel distance. Users can expect consistent feedback and actuation for both switches, resulting in a similar feel and performance. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the two switches, making them both suitable options for users looking for a linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying tone during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. While both switches have a low-pitched sound quality, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) stands out for its bass-heavy and mellow tone, whereas the Sea Salt Lemon is more neutral and moderate in its sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is praised for its buttery smooth typing experience, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offers a mild typing experience, making it more gentle and approachable for users who prefer a softer touch. Both switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, but the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) leans towards a more uniform and seamless feel, while the Sea Salt Lemon provides a comfortable and safe middle-ground typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch excels in providing a deep and rich sound with a buttery smooth typing feel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offers a versatile and neutral sound profile with a mild and gentle typing feel, catering to a wider range of users looking for a comfortable and approachable typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth and effortless keystroke, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of overall typing performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and affordable typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched sound, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a mild and gentle feel, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your sound and feel preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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