KTT F2 vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT F2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both present enticing options for users seeking a linear switch. The KTT F2 switches are renowned for their distinct hollow sound signature and medium-light weightiness, offering a comfortable and lightly textured typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switches are praised for their smooth, budget-friendly nature, providing a buttery smooth keystroke paired with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. While the F2 leans towards a more tactile feel, the Milky Red Pro focuses on delivering a smooth typing experience. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it is evident that both switches prioritize sound quality with their choice of materials. The F2's polycarbonate top and bottom housing contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, emphasizing clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to the softer nature of the material. Despite these differences, both switches excel in creating distinct sound profiles that cater to specific preferences.
While the F2 and Milky Red Pro (KS-3) differ in their choice of top and bottom housing materials, they both offer unique benefits to the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the F2 allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) prioritizes sound absorption, resulting in a more muted and rounded sound profile. These differences highlight the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall typing feel and sound of a switch.
In conclusion, despite the differences in housing materials between the KTT F2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the F2 enhances clarity and resonance, while the nylon material in the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) prioritizes a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference, with each offering a unique sound profile that caters to different typing styles and preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch reveals slight differences. The F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-light category, providing a balance between ease of typing and a solid typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the F2 may be the preferable option due to its slightly lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals seeking a slightly firmer feel may opt for the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with its slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches may depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which makes it shorter than the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance. The shorter travel distance of the F2 switch may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Milky Red Pro switch could provide a more substantial keypress experience. Both switches offer different tactile feedback due to their varying travel distances, so ultimately the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel. Ultimately, the shorter travel distance of the F2 switch and the longer travel distance of the Milky Red Pro switch offer unique advantages depending on the user's preference.
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 KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
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 KTT F2 linear switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound profile, providing a quieter and more subtle typing experience suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch produces a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound, offering a deeper and richer auditory feedback during key presses. While the F2 focuses on a more neutral and subdued sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) excels in delivering a satisfying and buttery smooth sound experience, catering to those who appreciate a more pronounced and bass-heavy acoustics.
When it comes to feel, the KTT F2 linear switch provides a feathery and mild typing experience, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and strain during extended typing sessions. The subtle texture of each keystroke adds a tactile nuance, enhancing the overall typing sensation. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery, emphasizing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that translates to a seamless and effortless typing session. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the F2 focusing on a lighter actuation force while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) prioritizes a buttery smooth sensation.
In conclusion, the KTT F2 linear switch stands out for its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, providing a comfortable and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch excels in delivering a smooth and affordable typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched thock sound. Depending on personal preferences, individuals can choose between the F2 for a more subdued and neutral sound and feel, or the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for a buttery smooth typing sensation with rich bass tones. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a distinct hollow sound signature with a lightly textured feel and medium-light actuation force, the F2 may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and affordable typing experience with a buttery smooth keystroke and a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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