Everglide Crystal Violet vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Crystal Violet and the PH Studio Milk Tea offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Crystal Violet switch is a tactile option, known for its light operating force and gentle, comfortable feel. With a mellow and lower-pitched sound profile, it provides a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch is a linear option that boasts a unique auditory blend, combining a high-pitched sound with a muted essence for a balanced typing experience. With a bottom-out force slightly lower than the Crystal Violet at 43.5g, it is tailored for extended typing sessions. 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
45g
Actuation force
37.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
ABS
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the PH Studio Milk Tea, we can see that both switches have unique characteristics. The Crystal Violet utilizes ABS for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Milk Tea features POM for both the top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound. Despite the difference in materials, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with distinct auditory feedback.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the sound profile that each housing material produces. The ABS housing of the Crystal Violet creates a lower-pitched sound, whereas the POM housing of the Milk Tea results in a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound can greatly impact the typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound profile. While both switches offer a unique typing experience, the choice between the Crystal Violet and Milk Tea ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that users can expect a slightly different typing experience with the Crystal Violet and Milk Tea, as the materials used in each switch will affect the sound and feel in distinct ways. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch which has an actuation force of 37.5 grams, making the Milk Tea the lighter option between the two. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Crystal Violet requires 55 grams while the Milk Tea requires 43.5 grams, making the Milk Tea the lighter option once again. In terms of weight, the Crystal Violet offers a medium-light feel while the Milk Tea provides a light typing experience. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Crystal Violet due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, while those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milk Tea. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance, offering a balance between depth and speed. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it more suitable for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer a different feel when pressed, with the Crystal Violet providing a slightly deeper press compared to the Milk Tea. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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.
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 Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switches are known for their low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and subtle auditory experience that is non-intrusive. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches offer a unique blend of high-pitched and clacky sound, striking a balance between presence and subtlety. The Milk Tea switches also have a marbly and resonant quality, contributing to a clean and sharp sound when typing. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Crystal Violet switches are described as creamy, mild, and stepped, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a gentle touch. These switches provide a comfortable feel with a subtle tactile bump. In contrast, the Milk Tea switches are polished and silky, providing a refined and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both sets of switches aim to offer a comfortable typing experience suited for prolonged use, making them ideal choices for individuals with extensive typing needs.
In conclusion, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switches offer a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a creamy feel, making them suitable for those seeking a gentle and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches provide a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched and clacky sound, coupled with a polished and silky feel for a refined typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing needs, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences regarding sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering between the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a relaxed and stepped tactile feel with a mellow and low-pitched sound profile, the Crystal Violet may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and linear switch with a high-pitched, clacky sound profile, the Milk Tea might be more your style. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what feel and sound you prefer before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Crystal Violet and Milk Tea switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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