Jwick Ginger Milk vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Haimu Orange Sea both present compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience. The Ginger Milk switches stand out with their soft pastel tones that not only enhance their aesthetic appeal but also offer a silky smooth and approachable typing feel. Users can expect a muted yet snappy sound profile, making these switches ideal for those who value a pleasant auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are revered for their impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound signature, catering to individuals who prefer a more understated auditory environment while enjoying an equally satisfying tactile experience. Both switches appeal to different preferences: the Ginger Milk is perfect for a more vibrant and sensory typing experience, while the Orange Sea caters to those seeking simplicity and smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Jwick Ginger Milk and the Haimu Orange Sea switches both feature polycarbonate top housings that share strikingly similar characteristics. The use of polycarbonate in these switches contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances sound clarity and resonance. Aesthetic aspects also remain consistent; with their translucent qualities, both switches capitalize on the beauty of RGB lighting, ensuring vibrant illumination that enhances visual appeal during use. Thus, users can expect a bright, clear sonic experience complemented by eye-catching lighting effects, regardless of whether they choose the Ginger Milk or the Orange Sea.
In contrast to their identical top housing material, the bottom housings of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Haimu Orange Sea are both constructed from nylon, which encompasses its own unique set of sound qualities. The nylon material’s softer characteristics contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Unlike polycarbonate, which accentuates higher frequencies, nylon's sound absorption creates a duller, rounder auditory experience. This complementary nature of the two materials in the switches manifests in the overall sound production: while the polycarbonate top provides clarity and brightness, the nylon bottom mediates that with a warmth that enhances the typing experience.
The interplay of these different housing materials allows each switch to possess a balanced sound profile that captures the strengths of both worlds. When engaging with either switch, the user will experience the heightened impact of the bottom housing at the bottom-out stage of key presses, thanks to the nylon’s impact on sound dampening. Conversely, during key release, the polycarbonate top housing will dominate the acoustic experience, resulting in a vibrant and resonant sound. Therefore, despite the differences in their bottom housings, both switches strive for a harmonious auditory experience by effectively combining the superior acoustics of polycarbonate with the warmth of nylon.
Weight
The Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch offer distinct experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Ginger Milk features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option that provides a more substantial feel during typing. In contrast, the Orange Sea switch is lighter, with an actuation force of only 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This significant difference suggests that typists who prefer a lighter switch might find the Orange Sea more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, while those who enjoy a stiffer push would lean towards the Ginger Milk. Ultimately, these contrasting force specifications highlight how the Ginger Milk provides a heavier and more pronounced typing experience compared to the lighter, more effortless feel of the Orange Sea.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, the Ginger Milk offers a distance of 3.7 mm, while the Orange Sea comes in slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. This makes the Jwick Ginger Milk the longer option, providing a more pronounced depth that some users may find preferable for a tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as the reduced travel can facilitate faster keystrokes. While both switches are close in their travel distances, the subtle difference could influence user preference based on their typing or gaming style. Ultimately, if responsiveness is your priority, the Orange Sea is the better choice; however, if you enjoy a deeper keystroke, the Ginger Milk may be more suited for you.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
The Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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 Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch features a muted and snappy sound profile that is described as neutral. This makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a moderate sound level, suitable for both quiet environments and more active spaces. The Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, on the other hand, is described as having a neutral sound signature but lacks further detailed characterization. The actual auditory experience of both switches may still vary depending on the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, which can influence the overall acoustic outcome.
In terms of feel, the Ginger Milk switches provide a buttery smooth keystroke that enhances the typing experience, allowing for a seamless and effortless interaction with the keyboard. This smoothness contributes to a more enjoyable typing experience, especially over long periods. The Orange Sea switches are noted for their impeccably smooth feel, aligning them closely with the Ginger Milk in providing a fluid typing sensation. Both switches emphasize a high level of smoothness, making them appealing to those who prioritize a refined tactile experience.
Overall, while both the Jwick Ginger Milk and Haimu Orange Sea linear switches deliver on the smoothness front, the Ginger Milk offers a unique sound profile that may be more suitable for those seeking a specific auditory experience. Both switches, however, cater effectively to typists looking for an enjoyable and smooth engagement. If a neutral sound and an exceptionally smooth feel are your criteria, either switch could serve you well, offering an inviting typing experience whether at home or in the office.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch that offers a muted yet snappy sound profile, the Ginger Milk could be the ideal fit for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 63.5 grams gives you a satisfying weightiness during typing, which can be excellent for those who like to feel a bit of resistance while typing or gaming. The buttery and luxurious typing experience can make long sessions feel more enjoyable, giving a smooth, almost silky sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you find yourself enjoying a lighter touch and prefer a more effortless typing experience, the Haimu Orange Sea is worth considering. With its lighter actuation force of just 45 grams, this switch could be perfect for fast-paced typing or gaming, allowing for quick and precise keystrokes without much fatigue. Additionally, the neutral sound profile ensures that your typing won’t disturb those around you, making it a suitable choice for both home and office environments. Ultimately, think about how each switch aligns with your typing style, comfort, and the ambient sound level in your surroundings to make the best choice.