Kailh Box White vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box White and PH Studio Milk Tea offer distinct experiences for users. The Box White is a clicky switch that provides maximum audio feedback, with a "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and accented tactility while typing. On the other hand, the Milk Tea is a linear switch that offers a unique auditory blend of high-pitched sound with a muted essence, creating a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. The Milk Tea switch is designed for prolonged typing sessions with its accessible bottom-out force and the use of Ly for the stem material, making every keystroke effortless. Each switch has its own qualities that appeal to different preferences, but 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Box White's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile with a higher pitch, making it ideal for those who prefer a more vibrant typing experience. In contrast, the Milk Tea's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, which may appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience. Both top housings are designed to enhance the sound profile of the switches, albeit in different ways.
On the other hand, the housing materials of the bottom of the switches also play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile. The Box White's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a more satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a softer sound profile. Similarly, the Milk Tea's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and muted sound, complementing the characteristics of the top housing to create a harmonious typing experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Kailh Box White and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches, both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Box White's polycarbonate top housing promotes a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Milk Tea's POM top housing delivers a deeper and more muted sound. Likewise, the nylon and POM bottom housings of the switches contribute to the overall sound profile, with the softer nylon creating a fuller sound in the Box White and the POM enhancing the depth of the Milk Tea. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharp, vibrant sound or a deeper, more muted sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch reveals some notable differences. The Box White has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the Milk Tea boasts a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milk Tea switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may prefer the Box White switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom will be the same. This similarity ensures that users will get a consistent tactile experience with either switch. The equal travel distance of both switches offers a standard typing feel for users, whether they prefer a clicky or linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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 Kailh Box White clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, similar to stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique blend of high-pitched and clacky sound, creating a balance between sharpness and subtlety. While the Box White provides a more immersive auditory experience, the Milk Tea switch offers a gentle and percussive sound when typing. Both switches have a high-pitched attribute, but the Box White leans towards a more crunchy profile, while the Milk Tea has a marbly resonance to it. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, both switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Milk Tea switch goes a step further with its silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The use of high-quality materials and factory lubing contribute to the overall smoothness of both switches, ensuring a comfortable typing session for users.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch excels in providing a resonant and crunchy sound profile with an accented tactility, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a balanced blend of high-pitched and clacky sounds with a smooth and effortless typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, but they both prioritize quality and comfort for users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and overall feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, resonant, and high-pitched sound profile that provides excellent auditory feedback, the Kailh Box White switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a clacky and marbly sound profile with a balance between sharpness and subtlety, and a smooth and silky typing experience, then the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and auditory feedback.
Mentioned in this article
