Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Silent Red both offer a smooth typing experience, making them popular choices for users seeking a quieter keyboard. The Milky Red Pro is known for its affordable price tag and buttery smooth keystrokes, accompanied by a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Silent Red is favored for its muted sound profile, making it ideal for office or shared living spaces. While both switches are categorized as 'Buttery,' the Milky Red Pro leans towards a 'Bassy' and 'Thocky' feel, while the Silent Red offers a 'Mild' and 'Polished' typing experience. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Red switches, we see a clear distinction in the materials used. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer nature that absorbs more sound to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the contrary, the Silent Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound experience of the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Milky Red Pro and the TTC Silent Red share the use of nylon. This classic switch housing material offers a similar typing experience by eliciting a deep and full sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite the difference in their top housings, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that users can expect a consistent sound and feel when typing on either switch.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact in a switch, it becomes apparent that the characteristics of each material will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding this split allows users to appreciate the nuanced differences in sound and feel that the housing materials bring to the overall typing experience, highlighting the importance of selecting the right material for individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that they have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in that aspect. However, the bottom out force of the Milky Red Pro is lighter at 52 grams, while the TTC Silent Red is heavier at 63.5 grams. This means that while both switches require the same amount of force to initiate a keystroke, the Milky Red Pro will provide a lighter overall typing experience compared to the heavier feel of the TTC Silent Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Despite the small difference in distance, it could potentially make a noticeable variation in feel and response when typing or gaming. Gamers who seek quick response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the TTC Silent Red switch, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Gateron Milky Red Pro switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the slight difference in travel distance may cater to different preferences in typing or gaming experiences.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 offers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile that gives off a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch provides a muted sound that is softer and quieter, perfect for environments where noise is a concern. Each switch has its unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Milky Red Pro focusing on a deeper and richer sound, while the Silent Red ensures a more subtle and muted typing experience.
When it comes to feel, both switches are described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is praised for its buttery smoothness, offering a consistent and satisfying typing sensation. The TTC Silent Red linear switch also provides a buttery feel with a mild and polished touch, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches deliver a comfortable typing experience with their buttery and polished feel, catering to users who prioritize smooth key presses.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milky Red Pro focuses on a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile for a deep and rich tone, the Silent Red provides a muted sound for a quieter typing experience. Both switches deliver a buttery feel with the Milky Red Pro emphasizing smoothness and the Silent Red offering a mild and polished touch. Depending on your sound and feel preferences, you can choose between the two switches to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a quiet and seamless typing experience suitable for office or shared living spaces, the Silent Red is the perfect choice with its muted sound profile and padded bottom-out feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing environment. Choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and enjoy a customized typing experience tailored to your liking.
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