Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Milk Tea mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Crystal switch is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium-light weight feel. This results in a unique typing experience that some users may find appealing. Additionally, the Crystal switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for quieter environments. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch is a tactile switch, providing feedback with each key press. While the Milk Tea switch does not have any specific standout features mentioned, tactile switches are often preferred by users who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Milk Tea switches both contribute to the sound profile of the switches, but in different ways. The Crystal's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's Ly top and nylon bottom housing produce a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The differences in material lead to distinct audio experiences when using each switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the Outemu Crystal's polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. The clear housing allows the light to shine through, enhancing the overall look of the keyboard. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea's nylon bottom housing is a classic switch material that provides a different visual appeal. While not translucent like polycarbonate, the nylon material contributes to a softer and smoother sound profile, creating a unique typing experience. Both switches offer different visual and auditory experiences based on their housing materials.
Overall, while the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Milk Tea switches have different housing materials, they both offer high-quality sound profiles with unique characteristics. The polycarbonate housing of the Crystal provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Milk Tea elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer a brighter and resonant sound or a sharper and more defined typing experience, both switches deliver exceptional performance based on their housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and aesthetics.
Weight
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Crystal has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Milk Tea is unknown. The Crystal switch is considered medium-light in terms of weight, providing a comfortable typing experience for longer periods without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch's weight is not specified, making it difficult to determine whether it is lighter or heavier. Actuation force is crucial for triggering keystrokes, while bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press the key all the way down. Therefore, those looking for a switch with a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Crystal switch with its higher bottom out force, while the Milk Tea switch could provide a more gentle typing experience due to the unknown bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Despite both switches having the same travel distance, they offer different typing experiences due to their different switch types. The linear Crystal switch provides a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, while the tactile Milk Tea switch offers a subtle bump or tactile response when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Outemu Milk Tea comes in at $3.10.
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
The Crystal linear switch offers a unique typing experience with its elastic feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a smooth and linear keystroke. It also provides a neutral sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea tactile switch lacks available information on its sound and feel qualities, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison. However, based on the information provided, it is safe to say that both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience, each with its own characteristics. If you enjoy the polished feel and neutral sound of the Crystal switch, you may find similar satisfaction in the Milk Tea switch, as both are designed to enhance the typing experience in their own unique ways. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and light linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a bottom out force that is lighter than the Crystal switch, the Outemu Milk Tea switches would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a linear or tactile feel, as well as the specific sound profile you desire in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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