Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Rose are two mechanical keyboard switches that both offer a unique typing experience. The Milky Yellow Pro is a classic budget switch that is known for its smoothness and satisfyingly thick resistance. It excels in both gaming and typing, making it a perfect all-purpose switch for budget enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Rose switch stands out with its beautiful appearance and the use of progressive springs, offering a substantial yet not heavy typing experience. While the Milky Yellow Pro is praised for its "thocky" sound and textured feel, the Rose switch provides a low-pitched and polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Rose differ in terms of the top housing. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Rose's top housing is made of polycarbonate, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, if you plan on using RGB lighting, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful in the top housing.
On the other hand, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Rose will offer similar sound profiles in terms of bottom-out sound.
It is important to note that when the top and bottom housings differ for a given switch, the qualities of each housing material will affect different aspects of the switch's performance. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the polycarbonate top housing of the Rose will contribute to different sound profiles and tactile experiences during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. Firstly, the actuation force of the Milky Yellow Pro is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Rose is unavailable. Thus, it is unknown whether they have similar actuation forces. However, the Milky Yellow Pro has a bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the Rose has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows them to type for extended periods without fatigue, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier force, providing a stronger push feel. In this case, the Milky Yellow Pro can offer a medium actuation force, whereas the Rose falls into the medium-heavy category with its slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams.
While we cannot directly compare the actuation forces of these switches due to the unavailability of information regarding the Rose, we can gather that their bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Rose being heavier. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences, with the Milky Yellow Pro offering a lighter experience and the Rose providing a slightly heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is 4 mm, while the KTT Rose linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer the same amount of travel distance when pressing down on a key. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the distance they 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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and the KTT Rose switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its low-pitched and thocky sound, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the Rose switches are also low-pitched and offer a bass-heavy and mellow tone. While both switches have similar low-pitched characteristics, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a more pronounced thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is described as buttery, meaning it offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Rose switches are mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They provide a polished feel, indicating a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. The Rose switches also offer reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) and KTT Rose switches have their own distinct qualities. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) excels in sound with its low-pitched and thocky characteristics, while the Rose switches offer a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a buttery and textured experience, while the Rose switches offer a mild and polished feel. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience. It's important to note that the ultimate typing experience is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is a great choice. With its smoothness, satisfying resistance, and low, "thocky" sound, it offers a versatile and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, if you're seeking a switch with a uniquely substantial typing experience and a beautiful aesthetic, the KTT Rose is the way to go. Its progressive springs provide a satisfying typing experience without being too heavy, and the bassy raindrop sound adds to its appeal. Both switches offer a low-pitched sound profile, but the Milky Yellow Pro leans more towards a thocky sound, while the Rose has a more neutral sound. In terms of feel, the Milky Yellow Pro is buttery and provides a smooth and seamless typing sensation. The Rose, on the other hand, is mild and offers a gentle typing experience, with a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro and the KTT Rose depends on your personal preferences and what you prioritize in a switch.
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