Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the TTC Speed Silver are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique qualities for different preferences. On one hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is a budget switch that embodies smoothness and a satisfyingly thick resistance. With its low-pitched, "thocky" sound and textured feel, it excels in both gaming and typing scenarios, making it a versatile all-purpose switch. Budget enthusiasts often gravitate towards the Milky Yellow Pro for its exceptional performance at an affordable price point. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switches are perfect for those who prioritize a fast and precise typing experience. These tactile switches have a light-medium level of resistance and a polished sound profile. With a reduced travel distance, the Speed Silver switches allow for quick and effortless actuation, catering to users seeking a swift and accurate typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and TTC Speed Silver switches differ in their housing materials. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, while the Speed Silver has a polycarbonate top housing. The choice of material affects the sound profile of the switches. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic, which absorbs more sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Speed Silver produces a sharper and crisper sound thanks to its stiffness. This difference in sound profile can greatly impact the typing experience based on individual preferences. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches used with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic advantage over the Milky Yellow Pro's solid color.
Both switches share the same nylon bottom housing material, which contributes to a similar sound profile. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softness and sound absorption properties. As a result, typing on both the Milky Yellow Pro and the Speed Silver will elicit a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing in particular plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when depressing the keys. Therefore, regardless of the differences in their top housings, the nylon bottom housing of these switches ensures a comparable typing experience in terms of sound.
Overall, the choice of housing material in the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and TTC Speed Silver switches greatly impacts their sound profiles. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Speed Silver produces a sharper and crisper sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate further enhances the Speed Silver's appeal when used with RGB lighting. However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, the preference for sound and aesthetic features will determine which switch is preferred.
Weight
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have some similarities and differences in terms of their actuation force and bottom out force. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Speed Silver's 45 grams. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches fall within the medium range, providing a balanced typing experience for most users.
When it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a higher value of 62 grams, while the Speed Silver has a lower value of 55 grams. This means that the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) requires slightly more force to fully press the switch down compared to the Speed Silver. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) might be the better choice due to its higher bottom out force.
Weight preference is also a factor to consider. Some people prefer lighter switches, like the Speed Silver's lighter actuation and bottom out forces, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. This is especially beneficial for those who use their keyboards for extended periods, such as in a work or gaming environment. On the other hand, some individuals prefer a stronger push feel for a more tactile experience, in which case they may prefer the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
In summary, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Speed Silver linear switch. However, both switches provide a balanced typing experience within the medium range. The choice ultimately depends on individual preference, with the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offering a slightly stronger push feel, while the Speed Silver provides a slightly lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Milky Yellow Pro. In terms of preference, a shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and prefer switches with a longer travel distance for a more satisfying and deep keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired feel when typing or gaming.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is well-known for its low, "thocky" sound. This means that it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." It also has a bass-heavy tone, which adds to the depth and richness of the sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch has a more neutral sound profile. It doesn't have any specific descriptors like "bassy" or "low-pitched," indicating that it falls within a moderate range in terms of sound. However, it is worth noting that the sound of switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is often described as buttery. This implies that it offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. It also doesn't have any noticeable texture or friction when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch is described as mild and polished. This means that it offers a more gentle typing experience, falling in the middle-ground zone in terms of characteristics. It has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the specific feel of the Speed Silver switch is not further elaborated upon, it can be inferred that it provides a sleek and comfortable typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch is a popular choice for budget enthusiasts looking for a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low, "thocky" sound profile. It excels in both gaming and typing scenarios, making it a versatile and all-purpose switch. The TTC Speed Silver switch, on the other hand, offers a fast and precise typing experience with a neutral sound profile. While the Speed Silver switch's specific feel is not explicitly mentioned, its mild and polished characteristics suggest a comfortable and polished typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and are likely to deliver satisfactory results depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a classic budget switch that offers both smoothness and a satisfyingly thick resistance, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. With its low, "thocky" sound and versatile performance in both gaming and typing, it is the perfect all-purpose switch for budget enthusiasts. On the other hand, if your priority is a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver is your best choice. These tactile switches feature a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile, allowing for quick and effortless actuation. Additionally, if you prefer switches with a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its bassy and low-pitched characteristics fits the bill. Alternatively, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile, the Speed Silver is the way to go. In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offers a buttery and seamless typing sensation, while the Speed Silver provides a mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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