Jwick Ginger Milk vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are endless options to choose from. Two popular switches that offer different typing experiences are the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Outemu Phoenix. The Ginger Milk is a linear switch known for its soft and pastel aesthetic, which indicates the typing experience it provides. With a silky smooth and approachable push feel, using the Ginger Milk switch feels like gliding effortlessly across the keys. Additionally, the muted yet snappy sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix is a clicky switch that stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism. This feature makes it one of the most distinct clicky switches available. Typing on the Phoenix switch feels like a crystalline and sparkling experience, both in terms of tactile feedback and sound profile. Categorized as neutral and buttery, the Ginger Milk offers a gentle and refined touch, while the Phoenix, labeled as crunchy and polished, provides a more pronounced and satisfying clicking sensation. However, let's explore further beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Outemu Phoenix switches share many similarities. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it ideal for those who want to add visual flair to their keyboards. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits from both switches' polycarbonate top housing.
However, the differences arise when it comes to the bottom housing. The Ginger Milk switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, typing on the Ginger Milk switch will create a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch features a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This ensures a consistent sound profile throughout the switch, maintaining the sharp and crisp characteristics associated with polycarbonate.
When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a tactile response when fully pressed. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing becomes more significant in determining the sound produced. By considering these factors, users can choose the switch housing material that best suits their typing preferences and desired sound profile. Whether it's the Ginger Milk's nylon for a deeper sound or the Phoenix's polycarbonate for a sharper tone, both switches offer unique options for customization and personalization.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that there are similarities and differences between the two. The Ginger Milk has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Phoenix, whose actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a relatively similar bottom out force, with the Ginger Milk having a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Phoenix's 62 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ginger Milk would be an ideal choice as its lighter actuation force enables longer periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, the Phoenix, with its unknown actuation force, would provide a different tactile experience. Some users may prefer the stronger push feel of the Phoenix for a more substantial typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences. Those seeking a lighter switch for extended typing sessions might favor the Ginger Milk, while users looking for a bit more resistance might be inclined to choose the Phoenix. Regardless, both options provide a medium to medium-heavy feel, allowing for efficient and satisfying keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that they have slightly different distances. The Ginger Milk has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Phoenix has a slightly shorter distance of 3.3 mm. The Ginger Milk falls closer to the traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Phoenix is on the shallower end with its 3.3 mm distance. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance offered by the Phoenix. However, for those who appreciate a deeper feel when pressing down on a key, the Ginger Milk's longer travel distance may be more satisfying. Both switches offer their respective advantages, but it ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
The Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is best known for its soft and pastel characteristics, which translate into a silky smooth and approachable push feel and a muted, snappy sound profile. The typing experience with these switches can be described as buttery, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out for its under-skirt click mechanism, making it one of the most unique clicky switches available. It offers a crystalline and sparkling typing feel and sound profile. The Phoenix switch can be described as polished, providing a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. While the Ginger Milk is neutral in terms of sound, suitable for most purposes, the Phoenix switch produces a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves.
Overall, the Ginger Milk linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Ginger Milk provides a soft and pastel typing experience with a buttery feel and a muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch offers a unique clicky experience with a crystalline feel and a sparkling sound profile. Although different, both switches deliver smooth key travel and reduced friction, resulting in an enjoyable typing experience. Keep in mind that the actual sound and feel can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. So, depending on your preferences, you can expect similar results in terms of overall satisfaction with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with a soft and pastel aesthetic, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is the one for you. It provides a silky smooth and approachable typing experience, along with a muted, snappy sound profile. Suitable for both beginners and advanced users, the Ginger Milk is versatile enough to be used at home or work. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a unique click mechanism, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is an excellent choice. Its under-skirt click mechanism offers a crystalline and sparkling typing feel and sound. With its crunchy sound profile, the Phoenix switch resembles stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Additionally, if you value a buttery and seamless keystroke experience, the Ginger Milk switch delivers with its smooth and fluid feel. On the contrary, if you prioritize a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Phoenix switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the Ginger Milk and the Phoenix switch depends on your preference for switch weight, sound profile, and feel. Consider your typing style and environment to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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