Gateron Aliaz vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Milk Blue mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Aliaz switch is ideal for those seeking a tactile typing experience in a quiet environment, such as an office setting, due to its silent design and medium-heavy weight providing a satisfying keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue switch offers a clicky typing experience without any specific standout feature. While the Aliaz switch is known for its 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished' feel, the Milk Blue switch does not have any particular defined characteristics. Each switch caters to a different preference and environment, so consider your typing needs and surroundings when choosing between them. 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Milk Blue switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing and the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing offer different sound profiles. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a similar sharp sound profile to the top housing, while the Milk Blue's softer nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Milk Blue differ in their bottom housing materials. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile that is characteristic of this material, contributing to the overall sound experience of the switch. In contrast, the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This distinction in bottom housing material impacts the overall typing experience, with the bottom-out sound and feel influenced by the bottom housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Milk Blue switches significantly impacts the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and resonant sound, the differences in bottom housing materials create varying sound profiles. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the clear sound profile, while the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing produces a fuller and deeper sound. Understanding how each housing material affects sound and feel can help individuals choose the switch that best suits their preferences in typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is heavier in both aspects. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Milk Blue has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Despite the difference in force, both switches offer a tactile feel and satisfying feedback for typing enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distances, it can be noted that both switches offer a similar key press experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect a consistent feel when typing on either switch. While the actual feeling and sound of each switch may differ due to their tactile/clicky characteristics, the travel distance remains the same for both the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Milk Blue switches. Overall, users can expect to experience a similar level of key travel on both switches, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is favored for its muted sound profile, which is ideal for quiet environments such as an office setting. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's sound profile is not specified, but typically clicky switches like the Milk Blue are known for producing a crisp clicking noise with each keystroke. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Aliaz switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with minimal resistance. This makes typing on the Aliaz switch a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Meanwhile, details about the feel of the Outemu Milk Blue switch are not provided in the information given.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is geared towards providing a quiet and substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy weight and smooth feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is known for its crisp clicking sound, but without specific information on its feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a quiet typing experience with a smooth feel or enjoy the audible feedback of a clicky switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you value a quiet working space and prefer a medium-heavy keystroke feel with a more subtle typing feedback, the Aliaz switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy the clicky sound of a traditional mechanical keyboard and a light keystroke feel, the Milk Blue switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice should be based on what best matches your typing style and environment.
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