Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Click. The Milky Yellow Pro is hailed as a classic budget switch that offers a smooth and buttery typing experience. It features a low, "thocky" sound and a satisfyingly thick resistance, making it ideal for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch is known for its high-pitched and satisfying click. It offers light keystrokes with pronounced tactility, striking a perfect balance. While the Milky Yellow Pro excels as an all-purpose switch, the Purple Click provides a unique and invigorating typing experience. However, let's explore these switches further to help you make the best choice based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Click differ in their housing materials. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, while the Purple Click utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Nylon is known for its softer texture, which absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the Purple Click use nylon material. This nylon housing enhances the sound profile of the switches, creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles in the typing experience. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing the key. Therefore, the different housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Click contribute to distinct sound profiles during typing, with the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offering a softer and fuller sound due to its nylon top housing, while the Purple Click delivers a sharper and crisper sound because of its polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it becomes evident that the Milky Yellow Pro is the heavier option. The Milky Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Purple Click's 40 grams actuation force. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keypress. Additionally, the Milky Yellow Pro has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Purple Click has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This indicates that the Milky Yellow Pro provides a more substantial typing experience as it requires more force to bottom out.
Considering the weight aspect, some users may prefer the Milky Yellow Pro due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This can provide a more satisfying and substantial typing experience. However, for those who prefer a lighter switch to type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, the Purple Click may be a better option. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light force range, offering similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with a moderate travel distance, allowing for precise and efficient key presses. Whether you choose the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro or the KTT Purple Click, you can expect a similar tactile feedback and key travel distance.
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 Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 known for its bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound is characterized by a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click has a crunchy and resonant sound profile. It provides a higher-pitched sound with a clean and sharp tone, similar to stepping on crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Both switches offer distinct sound experiences, with the Milky Yellow Pro emphasizing a deeper and more satisfying tone while the Purple Click delivers a crisp and immersive auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is praised for its buttery and textured keystroke experience. The switches offer a smooth and fluid sensation, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience. Some users may appreciate the subtle texture present in these switches, as it adds a tactile feedback that enhances typing comfort. On the other hand, the Purple Click is described as invigorating and stepped. It offers pronounced feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force, resulting in a snappy and reactive feel. The stepped nature of the switch provides a more mild tactile experience compared to hypersensitive switches, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Both switches provide unique typing sensations, with the Milky Yellow Pro focusing on a smooth and uniform experience, while the Purple Click offers an engaging and reactive feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Purple Click switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow Pro delivers a deep and satisfying thocky sound along with a smooth and buttery keystroke experience. It provides a versatile switch that excels in both gaming and typing scenarios, making it a popular choice among budget enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Purple Click offers a high-pitched click sound and an invigorating typing sensation with its stepped feel. Both switches have their own merits and preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired sound and feel profiles. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. By considering these factors, users can ensure a satisfying and personalized typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the way to go. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a satisfyingly thick resistance and a low-pitched, thocky sound. The Milky Yellow Pro provides a smooth and buttery typing experience, making it a versatile switch for all purposes. It is particularly popular among budget enthusiasts.
On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a fairly high-pitched, satisfying click, the KTT Purple Click switch is the better choice. With a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and a crunchy, resonant sound, this switch offers a tactile and invigorating typing experience. It provides pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro and the KTT Purple Click depends on your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience with a lower-pitched, thocky sound, go for the Milky Yellow Pro. If you prefer a clicky switch with a higher-pitched, crunchy sound and an invigorating feel, opt for the Purple Click. Both switches have their unique attributes and are suitable for different typing preferences.
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