Outemu Crystal vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches are both compelling options to consider. The Crystal switch offers a unique, linear typing experience with its elastic feel and medium-light weight, leading to a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch, manufactured by BSUN, provides a high-pitched yet muted sound and a bottom-out force of just 43.5g for prolonged typing sessions. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal's polycarbonate top and bottom housings both contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the PH Studio Milk Tea's POM housings, which create a deeper and more muted sound. The polycarbonate material's stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches where a sharp sound is desired, especially when using RGB lighting. In contrast, the POM material in the Milk Tea switches produces a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, offering a different auditory experience for users.
While both the Crystal and Milk Tea switches feature clear housings in their respective top and bottom components, the polycarbonate material in the Crystal switch stands out for creating a more transparent and vibrant appearance due to its translucency. This makes the Crystal switches a popular choice for users looking to enhance their keyboard aesthetics with RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the POM material in the Milk Tea switches may not offer the same level of translucency but contributes to a more subdued and understated look, complementing a minimalist or sophisticated keyboard design.
In terms of the tactile experience, the bottom housing material of a switch, whether polycarbonate or POM, significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The top housing material, on the other hand, has a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings of a switch allows users to experience a combination of characteristics from both materials, resulting in a nuanced typing experience that incorporates the unique sound profiles of polycarbonate and POM.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it is clear that the Milk Tea switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Crystal switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light in comparison. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch has an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, categorizing it as light in comparison. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Milk Tea switch more to their liking, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. Conversely, individuals who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback in their typing experience may choose the Crystal switch for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Crystal offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more traditional feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch has a shorter travel distance, which appeals to those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches fall within the range of what is considered normal for travel distance, with the Crystal being on the longer end and the Milk Tea on the shorter end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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 Outemu Crystal switches are known for their chirpy and high-pitched profile, adding a unique acoustic signature to your typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea switches offer a more diverse sound profile with descriptors like clacky, marbly, and resonant, creating a sharper and more dynamic auditory experience. Both switches provide a pleasant typing sound, but if you prefer a more eclectic and varied sound, the Milk Tea switches may be more to your liking.
In terms of feel, both the Crystal and Milk Tea switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Milk Tea switches are highlighted for their silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. If you prefer a smoother and more effortless typing feel, the Milk Tea switches may be more suitable for you.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal linear switches and PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal switches provide a neutral sound profile and a linear typing experience with medium-light weight, the Milk Tea switches offer a more diverse and dynamic auditory experience with a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. Both switches provide a polished and smooth typing feel, but the Milk Tea switches stand out for their silky feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and a neutral sound profile with a chirpy or high-pitched tone, the Crystal may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force, a unique auditory blend with high-pitched, clacky, marbly, and resonant tones, as well as a smooth and polished typing feel, then the Milk Tea switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics that align with your typing style and needs.
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