Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Speed Silver both offer unique characteristics to consider. The Milky Red Pro is praised for its smooth and affordable typing experience, with a buttery smoothness and pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is known for its fast and precise typing ability, with a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. While the Milky Red Pro is characterized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', and 'Thocky', the Speed Silver is described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths, offering users a different typing experience based on their 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver, the biggest difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Milky Red Pro features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Speed Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing materials results in distinct auditory experiences for users of these switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Milky Red Pro and the Speed Silver use nylon material. This material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Therefore, in terms of the bottom housing, users of both switches can expect a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the similar choice of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that the overall sound profile of these switches will have some common characteristics.
It is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound when a key is released. This means that users of the Gateron Milky Red Pro and the TTC Speed Silver will notice variations in sound and feel depending on whether they are pressing or releasing keys, based on the specific housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Red Pro has a lighter touch at 52 grams compared to the Speed Silver's 55 grams. This means that the Milky Red Pro offers a slightly lighter typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Milky Red Pro may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Speed Silver provides a slightly firmer push feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force sensitivity.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Milky Red Pro has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Speed Silver's 3.4 mm. The Milky Red Pro offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Speed Silver provides a shallower travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Speed Silver for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference for key feel 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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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, providing a deep and rich typing experience with each key press. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing preferences and environments. While the Milky Red Pro switch delivers a more distinct and bass-heavy sound, the Speed Silver switch offers a more moderate and versatile sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is praised for its buttery smooth keystrokes, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation that is both effortless and satisfying. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth and refined key travel that ensures reduced friction and a comfortable typing feel. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Milky Red Pro switch emphasizing smoothness and the Speed Silver switch focusing on a gentle and polished feel.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch each offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Milky Red Pro switch delivers a bassy and thocky sound with a buttery smooth feel, the Speed Silver switch provides a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a more distinct sound and smooth feel or a versatile sound profile and refined key travel, both switches offer excellent options for a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your specific typing preferences and priorities.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering which switch to choose between the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Speed Silver, it ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a smooth and affordable 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 value a fast and precise typing experience with reduced travel distance, the TTC Speed Silver would be the perfect fit. Both switches have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel, so consider what matters most to you when making your decision. Ultimately, trust your instincts and go with the switch that feels right for your typing needs.
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