Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Silent Brown offer distinct experiences catered to different preferences. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is a linear switch renowned for its smooth and affordable typing experience, providing users with a buttery smooth feel and a low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown is a tactile switch that offers a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile. While the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may appeal to those who prefer a smoother keystroke, the Silent Brown could be the choice for individuals seeking a tactile feedback. 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
63.5g
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Silent Brown, one can see a clear distinction in the sound profiles each material produces. The Milky Red Pro's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent Brown's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. These differences in sound profiles make the choice between the two switches a matter of personal preference based on the desired typing experience.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Milky Red Pro and the Silent Brown switches share the use of nylon in their bottom housing. This shared material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. While the top housing may have a more noticeable impact on the sound when typing, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches may result in a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel when bottoming out keys.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Silent Brown ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Brown creates a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches share the use of nylon in their bottom housing, contributing to a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a clearer and resonant sound, each switch offers its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch reveals some distinct differences. The Milky Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 45 grams, making them similar in that aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro requires 52 grams, while the Silent Brown needs 63.5 grams, making the Silent Brown the heavier option. This means that the Milky Red Pro provides a medium-light typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Silent Brown offers a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy feel, making it ideal for users who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.8 mm travel distance of the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Milky Red Pro being on the longer end and the Silent Brown being on the shorter end. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Brown, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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 bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and rich typing experience with a satisfying "thock" sound. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, reducing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Depending on personal preferences and the setup of your keyboard, you can achieve a satisfying auditory experience with either switch.
In terms of feel, both the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the Silent Brown switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. The Silent Brown switch also offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable to most users, with a polished finish that enhances key travel and reduces friction. Overall, both switches excel in providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, with the Silent Brown having the added benefit of a more gentle and refined experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both offer a pleasant typing experience. Whether you prefer the deep and rich sound of the Milky Red Pro or the muted sound profile of the Silent Brown, both switches provide a buttery smoothness and comfortable keystroke feel that will enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your keyboard setup. But rest assured, with either switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you are looking for a smooth and budget-friendly option with a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile for a comfortable typing experience, the Silent Brown is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize smoothness and affordability or tactile feedback and a quieter typing experience.
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