TTC Honey vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is important to note their key characteristics. The Honey switch is recognized for its smooth and creamy feel, offering a deep and pleasant sound profile. In contrast, the Milk Blue switch does not have a specific standout feature. The Honey switch is classified as 'subdued', 'creamy', 'frictionless', 'buttery', 'subtle', and 'polished', while the Milk Blue switch does not fall under any specific category. If you are looking for a switch with a smooth and quiet typing experience, the TTC Honey may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and audible typing experience, the Outemu Milk Blue switch could be the better option. 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
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Outemu Milk Blue switches, both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that lends itself to a more resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is also beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the design. However, the TTC Honey differentiates itself from the Milk Blue by using polycarbonate for the bottom housing as well, ensuring a consistent sound profile throughout the press and release of a key.
In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material between the two switches can lead to a noticeable variation in the overall typing experience, with the TTC Honey providing a more consistent sound and feel due to its polycarbonate bottom housing. Despite this difference, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. For users seeking a sharper, crisper sound profile, the TTC Honey with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and fuller sound may appreciate the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Milk Blue switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The TTC Honey linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's 50 grams. This means that the Honey switch will require less force to register a keystroke, which may be preferred by those who type for long periods of time. However, the Honey switch has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unknown. The Milk Blue switch is likely to have a lighter bottom out force since its actuation force is higher. This difference means that while the Milk Blue switch may require more force to trigger a keystroke, it may not require as much force to press all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter actuation force or a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milk Blue switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Honey switch. A 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. For those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Honey switch may be the better option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial key press with a bit more depth, the Milk Blue switch could be the way to go. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, so the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Honey linear switch is often praised for its subdued sound profile, offering a quieter typing experience compared to many other switches on the market. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's sound profile is currently not available. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout, keycaps, and typing technique.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Honey linear switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless key press. The switch offers a buttery sensation, allowing your fingers to glide across the keys with ease. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to a refined and sleek typing experience. In contrast, details on the feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch are not provided at this time.
In conclusion, the TTC Honey linear switch stands out for its smooth and pleasant sound profile, as well as its creamy and buttery typing feel. While information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is not available, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard. It is worth noting that both switches may offer similar results in terms of sound and feel, depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Honey linear switch or the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light and smooth typing experience with a creamy feel and deep sound profile, the TTC Honey linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with a satisfying auditory feedback, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch could be more suitable. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make an informed decision on which switch would best complement your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features and can enhance your overall typing experience depending on your individual preferences.
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