Huano Grape Orange vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Milk Blue offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Grape Orange, recognized for its linear design, provides an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience with an ultra-low actuation force of just 40g, making it an ideal choice for users who engage in extended typing sessions without the fatigue associated with heavier switches. In contrast, the Milk Blue, known for its clicky feedback, offers a tactile and audible response upon actuation, which can enhance typing accuracy and provide satisfying sensory feedback that many typists crave. While the Grape Orange is perfect for those seeking a smooth and quiet operation, the Milk Blue appeals to users who enjoy the classic "clicky" feel of traditional typewriters. Both switches cater to different needs and preferences, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Milk Blue switches present a fascinating study in how the composition of both the top and bottom housings can influence sound profiles and overall typing experiences. Both the Grape Orange and Milk Blue use polycarbonate for their top housings, which is known for its stiffness and clarity. This commonality results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that enhances the overall resonance of each switch. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting, creating a visually appealing aesthetic for gamers and typists alike. Thus, users can expect a similar auditory experience when engaging with either switch, highlighting the advantages of polycarbonate in creating clear sound signatures.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are constructed from nylon, which is a traditional choice in the mechanical keyboard industry. Nylon's inherent softness allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This shared material characteristic means that when typing on either switch, users will experience a muted and more rounded sound upon bottoming out. In both cases, the bottom housing significantly contributes to the switch's tactile feedback and overall comfort in operation. As a result, while the top housings promote a bright sound signature, the nylon bottom housing counterbalances that with a dampened quality, making both switches desirable for different sound preferences.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the Huano Grape Orange and Outemu Milk Blue achieves a well-rounded acoustic experience. By merging the crispness of polycarbonate with the softness of nylon, these switches offer distinct yet complementary sound profiles. The polys of the top housing contribute to the clarity during key releases, while the nylon bottom housing deepens the auditory impact upon actuation. Thus, for users seeking a blend of bright and warm sound characteristics in their mechanical keyboards, both switches effectively deliver a compelling performance that caters to a range of tactile and auditory preferences.
Weight
The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch exhibit differing characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces, which may influence user preference based on typing style. The Grape Orange features a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who favor a softer key feel for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Milk Blue requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, which provides a more substantial push that some users might prefer for tactile feedback; however, its bottom out force remains unspecified. This unknown value leaves a gap in direct comparison, but it is clear that the Grape Orange is the lighter option overall, while the Milk Blue is heavier in terms of actuation force. For those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience, the Milk Blue may be the better choice, whereas the Grape Orange offers a lighter touch for ease of use over longer periods.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, a clear distinction emerges: the Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milk Blue measures 4 mm. This means that the Grape Orange offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times; its slightly reduced distance allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Milk Blue's longer travel distance of 4 mm caters to users who prefer a more traditional and hearty depth when typing, providing a sense of tactile feedback that some find more satisfying. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness with the Grape Orange or a more pronounced keystroke experience with the Milk Blue.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
The Outemu Milk Blue 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
The Huano Grape Orange linear switch produces a relatively muted sound, characterized by a subtle, smooth action that doesn't draw much attention. This makes it an excellent choice for environments where noise can be a distraction, allowing for quiet typing sessions that still feel satisfying. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a distinct auditory feedback with a prominent click upon actuation. This click not only confirms a keystroke but also contributes to a more engaging typing experience, making it ideal for users who appreciate auditory cues while typing. However, the overall sound performance can vary based on the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Grape Orange switch is known for its exceptionally light touch, featuring an ultra-low actuation force of just 40g. This characteristic allows for swift typing and less finger fatigue, making it ideal for prolonged usage without sacrificing comfort. In stark contrast, the Milk Blue switch offers a tactile experience with a noticeable bump followed by a click, providing a satisfying resistance that many typists find engaging. This tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy for those who prefer a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard.
In conclusion, the Grape Orange is perfect for those seeking a lightweight and quiet typing experience, while the Milk Blue caters to users who thrive on tactile and auditory feedback during their keystrokes. Each switch caters to different preferences: the Grape Orange is suited for long sessions without noise, and the Milk Blue excels in delivering an entertaining typing rhythm through its clicky sound and tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on individual typing style and personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, you should consider your typing preferences and the typing environment. If you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, especially during long sessions, the Grape Orange is a fantastic choice due to its ultra-light actuation force and linear feel that requires minimal effort. It is particularly suitable for those who value speed and comfort in their typing or gaming activities. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback and a pronounced auditory experience, the Milk Blue switch might be more appealing. These switches usually provide satisfying clicks with each keystroke, making them ideal for typists who relish the sensory aspects of typing and don’t mind a louder sound profile. Ultimately, your personal preference for typing sensations—whether you favor the silent glide of linear switches or the audible feedback of clicky switches—will guide you in making the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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