Outemu Crystal vs. Jwick Ginger Milk

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal and the Jwick Ginger Milk. The Crystal switches are known for providing a unique, linear typing experience due to their fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight. Typing on these switches delivers a neutral sound profile, which can be appealing to those looking for a quieter experience. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switches offer a softer and pastel typing experience, accompanied by a silky smooth and approachable push feel. These switches emit a muted, snappy sound profile that adds a satisfying touch to the 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

Outemu Crystal Linear

Jwick Ginger Milk Linear

$3.40 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and Jwick Ginger Milk switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it enhances the visual appeal. Therefore, the similarities in the top housing material of these switches ensure that users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.

However, the differences arise when comparing the bottom housing materials of the two switches. The Outemu Crystal employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, just like its top housing. This maintains the sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile associated with polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material leads to contrasting sound experiences between the two switches, with the Crystal being sharper and crisper, while the Ginger Milk produces a duller and rounder sound.

It is important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material are influenced by whether they are used in the top or bottom housing of a switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, although the Crystal and Ginger Milk switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinct tactile and auditory experiences for users.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, we can see clear differences in their weights. The Crystal switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Crystal switch would be an ideal choice. Its lower actuation force allows for longer periods of typing without causing strain or fatigue. This makes it suitable for situations such as bringing the keyboard to work or indulging in lengthy gaming sessions.

However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial and forceful keystroke, the Ginger Milk switch provides a stronger push feel. The heavier actuation force of 50 grams provides a tactile feedback that some typists find satisfying, contributing to a more pronounced typing experience. This can be beneficial for those who prefer a more deliberate and prominent keystroke.

In terms of bottoming out, both switches offer a similar result. Although the Crystal switch requires a lighter force to trigger a keystroke, both switches have a respective bottom out force that ensures the keys are pressed all the way down. This means that regardless of the actuation force, users can expect a consistent and complete key press with both switches.

Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Crystal and the Jwick Ginger Milk depends on personal preference. Those who prioritize a lighter typing experience will gravitate towards the Crystal switch, while individuals seeking a more substantial and forceful keystroke may opt for the Ginger Milk switch. By considering weight and the desired typing experience, users can choose the switch that best suits their needs.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the travel distance of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is 3.7 mm. The Crystal switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ginger Milk switch. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional and offers a balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, a travel distance of 3.7 mm is slightly shorter, making it preferred by gamers who value faster response times. While the difference in travel distance is minimal, it can significantly impact the feel and response of the switch. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Ginger Milk switch with its shorter travel distance would be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a deeper and more substantial keypress, the Crystal switch with its slightly longer travel distance might be more suitable for you. Regardless of your preference, both switches offer different options to cater to diverse user preferences in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its unique acoustic signature. It has a chirpy sound, which means it has a slight squeak when pressed. This distinct sound sets the Crystal switches apart from others. Additionally, the Crystal switches have a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound. If you prefer a switch with a rich and bassy sound, the Crystal switches might not be your ideal choice. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offers a neutral sound profile. It has a moderate sound that is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use it at home or work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps you choose.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switches provide a unique typing experience. They have a fairly elastic feel combined with a medium-light weight, resulting in a linear typing sensation that is distinct and unparalleled. Additionally, the Crystal switches offer a polished feel. This means they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel provided by the Crystal switches ensure a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switches offer a buttery feel. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation.

Overall, while both switches have their unique qualities, the Outemu Crystal linear switches and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switches offer different subjective experiences. The Crystal switches have a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, along with a polished and refined feel. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switches provide a neutral sound profile and a buttery typing feel. Depending on your personal preferences, one of these switches may better suit your desired typing experience. However, if you enjoy the unique qualities of the Crystal switches but still want a similar sound or feel, the Ginger Milk switches may provide a comparable result. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your individual preferences and the specific typing experience you are seeking.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and elastic typing experience with a medium-light weight, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is the way to go. These switches provide a neutral sound profile and have a polished feel, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a chirpy and high-pitched sound when typing, the Crystal is the better choice for you.

On the other hand, if you want a softer and pastel typing experience, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is the ideal option. These switches offer a silky smooth and approachable push feel with a muted and snappy sound profile. They have a medium-heavy bottom out force, giving you a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Crystal.

In terms of sound, if you prefer a switch with a unique acoustic signature and a higher-pitched sound, the Crystal is the one for you. However, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile, the Ginger Milk is your best bet.

In terms of feel, if you want a switch with reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a polished finish, the Crystal is the way to go. But if you prefer a buttery and fluid keystroke experience with seamless and effortless typing, the Ginger Milk is the better choice.

Ultimately, your decision between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and overall feel. Consider what factors are most important to you and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Linear

$3.40 per 10

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Jwick Ginger Milk Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more