Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Orange are two linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct qualities and cater to different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro is renowned for its affordability and versatility, excelling in both gaming and typing with its smoothness and satisfying resistance. It is characterized by a low, "thocky" sound and a textured feel. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches feature a bouncy type feel, attributed to their 22mm long spring. These switches provide a slick, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. The factory-lubing ensures a refined, fluid key travel, minimizing friction and maximizing smoothness. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which switch would best suit your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Orange have contrasting housing materials that ultimately result in different sound profiles. The Milky Yellow Pro features a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer and more sound-absorbing nature of nylon. In contrast, the KTT Orange utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, leading to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a more clear and resonant sound. Those who prefer a softer and fuller sound may lean towards the Milky Yellow Pro, while those desiring a crisper and clearer sound may opt for the KTT Orange.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of these switches also differ. The Milky Yellow Pro's nylon top housing does not allow for RGB lighting due to its lack of translucency. Conversely, the KTT Orange's polycarbonate top housing is perfect for users planning to utilize RGB lighting, as polycarbonate is transparent. This allows for a visually appealing illumination effect when combined with lighting effects. So, individuals seeking to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup may gravitate towards the KTT Orange, while those not concerned with lighting may find the Milky Yellow Pro equally suitable.
However, it is worth noting that despite the differences in housing materials, both switches provide a notable tactile typing experience. The bottom housing of each switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, delivering a consistent tactile response. Similarly, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, ensuring a satisfying auditory experience. So, whether you choose the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro or the KTT Orange, you can expect a tactile and responsive typing performance, albeit with different sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the 46 grams of the Orange switch. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) requires a heavier 62 grams of force, while the Orange switch requires a lighter 53 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter feel, the KTT Orange switch would be the better option, as it has a lower actuation force and bottom out force. This lighter weight can be beneficial for those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. It provides a smoother and easier keystroke without requiring as much effort.
On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch, with its higher actuation force and bottom out force, would be the preferred choice. This heavier weight can provide a satisfying push and a more pronounced tactile feedback, giving the keyboard a sturdier and more robust feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer a medium weight range, with the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) being slightly heavier, and the KTT Orange being slightly lighter. However, both switches aim to strike a balance between actuation force and bottom out force, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience while minimizing fatigue.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Orange linear switches have different travel distances. The Milky Yellow Pro has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional length. On the other hand, the Orange switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter distance allows for quicker key presses and potentially better gaming performance. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro would be the better choice with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 Yellow Pro (KS-3) is best described as having a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. When pressed and released, they produce a satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" sound. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches also have a low-pitched sound profile. While the exact sound characteristics are not mentioned, they are likely to have a bass-heavy and mellow tone, similar to the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). Overall, both switches provide a pleasing low-pitched sound, but the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is specifically known for its thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is often described as buttery and smooth. These switches offer a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. However, the Orange switches are known for their bouncy feel. They offer a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Orange switches are described as frictionless, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. While the feel of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is focused on buttery smoothness, the Orange switches prioritize a bouncy and frictionless typing experience.
Considering the available information, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Orange switches offer enjoyable qualities for different preferences. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) excels in providing a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, making it suitable for those who enjoy a deeper and richer sound. It also offers a buttery and smooth typing experience, ensuring a seamless and effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches provide a low-pitched sound, possibly similar to the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), and are known for their bouncy and frictionless feel, offering a typing experience with lively feedback and a fluid key travel. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique attributes that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. With its smoothness, satisfying resistance, and low, thocky sound, these switches are perfect for all-purpose use. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy, frictionless typing experience with a slick sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch is the better choice. With its long spring, polycarbonate milky top housing, and excellent factory-lubing, you can expect a refined and fluid key travel. Both switches offer medium to medium-light bottom out forces, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to your preference in sound and feel.
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