TTC Gold Pink vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Pink and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches both offer distinct characteristics suited for different typing preferences and styles. The TTC Gold Pink is celebrated for its exceptionally light 37g actuation force, making it an appealing choice for users who prioritize speed and efficiency, particularly in fast-paced gaming or typing scenarios. Its clacky sound adds an engaging auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch, crafted by BSUN, features a unique auditory blend that produces a high-pitched yet muted sound, creating a soothing typing atmosphere. This switch utilizes Ly material for its stem, ensuring that keystrokes are smooth and effortless, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. While both switches are linear and designed for smooth actuation, the Gold Pink is geared towards those who thrive on speed, while the Milk Tea appeals to those who prefer a subtle yet engaging auditory element. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
37.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
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 housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches exhibit distinct characteristics that influence their sound profiles and overall auditory experiences. The Gold Pink switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch has a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials serve the same purpose in contributing to the sound profile, they differ significantly in the quality of sound they deliver. If you desire a vibrant and resonant response, the Gold Pink's polycarbonate housing would be ideal, especially under RGB lighting where its translucency enhances visual appeal.
The bottom housing of these switches further emphasizes their differences. The Gold Pink utilizes nylon, offering a deeper, fuller sound profile that is characterized by its ability to absorb sound due to its softer plastic composition. This contrasts with the Milk Tea's POM bottom housing, which also delivers a deep sound but with its unique muted quality. Each material shapes the auditory experience differently; nylon contributes to a rounder sound, while POM retains some clarity while still being less pronounced. Hence, while both switches provide deeper tones stemming from their bottom housings, the nuances in their sound profiles lead to varied tactile sensations and auditory feedback.
When considering the effect of combined top and bottom housing materials, each switch's performance is the result of their individual contributions. With the Gold Pink, the polycarbonate top offers a crisp release sound, accentuating the bottom-out impact created by the nylon housing beneath it. In the case of the Milk Tea, the POM top complements the muted richness of the bottom housing, leading to a more cohesive sound experience. Thus, while the TTC Gold Pink and PH Studio Milk Tea switches showcase different material choices, they both deliver high-quality sound profiles tailored to distinct preferences. Users can select based on whether they favor the sharper brightness of polycarbonate or the deeper, warmer tones provided by POM and nylon combinations.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch with the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, both options offer relatively light actuation forces, which makes them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Milk Tea has a slightly heavier actuation force of 37.5 grams and a lower bottom out force of 43.5 grams. This positions the Gold Pink as the lighter option overall in terms of actuation force, although both switches are still classified as light. The Gold Pink requires less force to actuate, while the Milk Tea's bottom out force is slightly lighter, yielding a very similar typing experience. Users who prefer a more substantial feel may lean toward the Gold Pink because of its lower actuation force, allowing for quicker key presses without additional strain. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more deliberate push with their keystrokes might find the Milk Tea more appealing due to its heavier actuation. Overall, both switches offer unique advantages based on user preference for typing dynamics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, there is a notable difference in their measurements. The Gold Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Milk Tea boasts a shorter distance of 3.6 mm. This places the Gold Pink at the more traditional end of the spectrum, favored by users seeking a deeper, more tactile experience, while the Milk Tea caters to those who prefer a quicker, more responsive feel, a characteristic often favored by gamers for enhanced speed. Ultimately, if you're inclined towards a switch that provides a more substantial depth, the Gold Pink is the better choice, whereas the Milk Tea is ideal for those who prioritize rapid actuation with a shallower travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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.
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 discussing the sound of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, it stands out for its clacky and lively auditory profile, providing a sharp and crisp feedback with every keystroke. This makes it particularly appealing for users who enjoy a more vibrant and engaging typing experience, especially in fast-paced scenarios like gaming. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch possesses a unique auditory quality, characterized by a high-pitched yet muted sound that strikes a gentle balance between clarity and subtlety. Its sound can be described as resonant and marbly, which guarantees a clean and immersive auditory experience. While both switches cater to different auditory preferences, the Gold Pink offers a more pronounced sound while the Milk Tea provides a smoother, more nuanced sound profile.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Pink offers a light and effortless typing experience with descriptors such as buttery and feathery. This minimizes finger fatigue, especially during lengthy typing sessions, making it ideal for users who prioritize comfort and speed. The actuation force of 37g contributes to its overall mild, polished sensation, ensuring that every keystroke feels smooth and satisfying. Conversely, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch also emphasizes a polished feel but takes it a step further with its silky smoothness. This switch provides a refined typing experience with minimal resistance, making it pleasant to type on without the strain. While both switches prioritize a smooth typing feel, the Gold Pink leans towards a lighter and more responsive action, whereas the Milk Tea focuses more on silky fluidity.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Pink and PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches each bring unique characteristics to typing and gaming experiences, they cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Gold Pink is ideal for those looking for a clacky sound paired with a light and lively feel. In contrast, the Milk Tea offers a more subtle sound and a silky, polished typing experience. Depending on personal preference, either switch could deliver a satisfying experience, as both allow for fast typing and minimal finger fatigue but do so in distinct ways.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches, your choice should align closely with your typing preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize a fast and responsive typing experience, especially for gaming or rapid tasks, the Gold Pink switch may be the right fit due to its light actuation force of 37 grams and that clacky, lively feedback. This can keep your fingers active and engaged, reducing fatigue during long sessions. However, if you prefer a more balanced auditory experience and a smoother feel, the Milk Tea switch is an excellent option. With its polished and silky characteristics, coupled with a slightly muted sound profile, it allows for a comfortable typing experience without overwhelming auditory feedback—ideal for shared or quiet spaces. Therefore, choose the Gold Pink for a bright, engaging typing experience and the Milk Tea for a gentle, refined feel that emphasizes smoothness and subtlety.
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