Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you might find yourself torn between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Semi Mute. Both of these linear switches have their own unique qualities that make them appealing options. The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is a classic budget switch that offers a smooth and buttery typing experience. With its low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, it excels in both gaming and typing, making it a perfect all-purpose switch. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is tailor-made for those who prioritize a noise-free environment. Despite its completely silent operation, these switches provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. With advanced dampening technology and a linear actuation, the Semi Mute switch ensures undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions. 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Semi Mute differ significantly in terms of the sound profiles they produce. Nylon, used in the top and bottom housings of the Milky Yellow Pro, creates a deeper and fuller sound. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Semi Mute produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate, being stiffer compared to nylon, generates a more clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Semi Mute enables better RGB lighting effects, making it a desirable choice for those who prioritize visual appeal.
While the top and bottom housings of the Milky Yellow Pro and the Semi Mute serve different functions, they both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing, which has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will showcase the qualities of the respective materials. The softer and more absorbent nature of nylon in the Milky Yellow Pro's bottom housing will result in a deeper and more muted bottom-out sound. In contrast, the stiffer polycarbonate of the Semi Mute's bottom housing will produce a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound. However, the top housing, irrespective of the material used, will influence the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the dull and round sound of nylon or the clear and resonant sound of polycarbonate, the release sound will be determined by the top housing material.
Despite their differences, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Semi Mute offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. If one is seeking a deeper and fuller sound experience, the Milky Yellow Pro with its nylon top and bottom housing would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound may opt for the Semi Mute featuring polycarbonate housing. Additionally, if RGB lighting is a factor, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate top housing's translucency makes it particularly advantageous. Ultimately, while the two switches have varying housing materials, they both cater to different sound preferences and offer their own distinct qualities.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Starting with the actuation force, the Milky Yellow Pro requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Semi Mute requires 43 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of actuation force. This means that users will experience a relatively light touch when typing on either switch. In terms of bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro requires 62 grams, while the Semi Mute requires 58 grams. Once again, both switches fall into the medium range for bottom out force.
While the actuation forces and bottom out forces of the two switches may differ slightly, they both offer a similar typing experience. Both switches provide a relatively light actuation force, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions. This lighter weight allows for reduced fatigue and increased comfort, whether it be for work or gaming purposes. However, if a user prefers a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, they may lean towards switches with heavier forces.
Overall, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The differences in force between the two switches are minimal and may not be noticeably distinct to the average user. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience when pressed down on a key, as they will travel the same distance from top to bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the Milky Yellow Pro or the Semi Mute, you can expect a consistent and comfortable feel when using either switch.
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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is known for its deep and rich sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range and a thocky, satisfying tone. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is designed to be completely silent, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. While the Milky Yellow Pro offers a bassy and low-pitched sound, the Semi Mute switch provides a muted sound experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps being used. Overall, if you're looking for a switch with a deeper, bass-heavy sound and a satisfying thocky feel, the Milky Yellow Pro would be a great choice. If you prioritize a noise-free environment and desire a quieter typing experience, the Semi Mute switch would be the way to go.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize a budget-friendly switch with a versatile performance in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, this switch offers a satisfyingly thick resistance and a low, "thocky" sound that provides a deep and rich typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and prefer a completely silent operation, especially during late-night typing sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be the ideal option. With a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, these switches combine linear actuation with advanced dampening technology to offer a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. Their muted sound profile ensures a softer and quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro and the KTT Semi Mute switches depends on your specific preferences and requirements regarding sound and feel.
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