HMX Deep Navy vs. Outemu Milk Peach
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Outemu Milk Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options to find the perfect fit for their typing needs. The HMX Deep Navy switches stand out with their rich, sharp sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to their full nylon construction and Ly stems. This combination not only provides an auditory delight but also ensures a comfortable typing experience, making them a great choice for users who value both performance and aesthetics. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Peach switches also present an appealing option for those seeking linear switches, known for their smooth actuation and pleasant feel. While they may lack some of the distinctive features of the Deep Navy, they offer excellent reliability and are often lauded for their affordability, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious gamers and typists alike. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Outemu Milk Peach switches, notable distinctions arise primarily from the top housing components. The Deep Navy features a top housing crafted from nylon, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer texture which effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a sound that is dull and rounded. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Peach utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is inherently stiffer and contributes to a sharper and crisper acoustic signature. The characteristics of polycarbonate allow for enhanced resonance, making it particularly suitable for applications involving RGB lighting due to its translucent nature. Consequently, users of the Milk Peach may enjoy a more vibrant auditory experience as the rigidity of polycarbonate amplifies higher frequencies compared to the softer tones of nylon in the Deep Navy.
Both switches exhibit a similarity in their bottom housing, as both the Deep Navy and the Milk Peach switches utilize nylon for this component. This uniformity in the bottom housing material means that regardless of the noticeable differences in sound profile created by their respective top housings, both switches deliver a consistent level of sound absorption and a fuller auditory experience when the keys bottom out. The nylon bottom housing contributes to that characteristic dull and rounded sound profile that typifies both models. This shared material in the bottom housing indicates that, although the top component influences the immediate sound when keys are released, the overall experience when pressing down on both switches remains aligned in depth and fullness due to the nylon's acoustic properties.
In essence, while the HMX Deep Navy and Outemu Milk Peach switches differ significantly in their top housing materials—nylon leading to a softer sound in the Deep Navy versus polycarbonate offering a sharper sound in the Milk Peach—they converge on the auditory experience provided by their nylon bottom housings. This synergy between similar base materials ensures that users can expect a consistent bottom-out feel and sound across both switches, effectively blending the contrasting characteristics of their respective top housings. Thus, whether opting for the Deep Navy's understated tones or the Milk Peach's vibrant clarity, users can appreciate a compelling overall typing experience, rooted in the deeper properties of nylon in both switches' bases.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Deep Navy switch features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Peach switch has a slightly heavier actuation force at 45 grams; however, its bottom out force is not specified, which leaves an unknown variable in the comparison. This unknown aspect makes it difficult to fully align the tactile feedback of the Milk Peach switch against the Deep Navy. Ultimately, the Deep Navy's lighter actuation force provides an effortless keystroke for frequent use, whereas the Outemu Milk Peach is geared towards users who appreciate a more substantial feel due to its higher actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Deep Navy features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milk Peach measures at 3.3 mm. This means that the Milk Peach has a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times for enhanced gameplay. Conversely, the Deep Navy offers a longer travel distance, potentially providing a more tactile and satisfying experience for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, your choice between these switches should align with your preferences for responsiveness and depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
The Outemu Milk Peach comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Deep Navy switch delivers a rich, sharp sound profile that can enhance the overall typing experience, with its full nylon construction contributing to this auditory richness. The sound is characterized by a distinct clarity that makes it satisfying for both typing and gaming. Unfortunately, there is little available information on the sound profile of the Outemu Milk Peach switch, leaving its auditory qualities somewhat of a mystery. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by a variety of factors including the choice of keyboard and keycap material, meaning both switches could potentially sound different when installed in different setups.
When considering feel, the Deep Navy switch is known for its silky smoothness with every keystroke, thanks to its Ly stem design. This smoothness provides a pleasant tactile experience, making it suitable for long typing sessions without finger fatigue. The specifics of the feel for the Milk Peach switch remain unknown, which leaves a gap in understanding how it might compare to the Deep Navy. Without insight into the Milk Peach's characteristics, users may need to rely on reviews or personal testing to ascertain its tactile feedback and overall feel.
In conclusion, the HMX Deep Navy switch is well-regarded for its rich sound profile and smooth keystrokes, making it a compelling option for those in search of an enjoyable typing experience. The Outemu Milk Peach switch, while lacking detailed information on its qualities, may still pique interest due to its own unique attributes yet to be fully explored. For those who prioritize sound, the Deep Navy is likely the better choice, while the Milk Peach remains an enigmatic alternative awaiting discovery. Ultimately, users can expect both switches to deliver quality performance, although the distinct qualities of the Deep Navy may set it apart in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch largely hinges on your preferences for sound profile, tactile feedback, and overall typing experience. If you enjoy a lighter switch that offers a rich, sharp sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes thanks to its unique construction and Ly stem, then the Deep Navy will be an excellent choice for you. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate an engaging auditory experience while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you are indifferent to the specific sound or tactile feel of a switch, you might lean towards the Milk Peach, especially if you are seeking a switch that suits more general or quieter typing needs. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences regarding both sound and feel, as well as how you plan to use your keyboard—whether for gaming, work, or casual typing.
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