TTC Iron vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Iron and PH Studio Milk Tea mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The TTC Iron is praised for its distinctive clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts and daily users alike. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea stands out with its high-pitched yet muted sound profile and accessible bottom-out force, making it ideal for those who engage in prolonged typing sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that may appeal to different individuals based on their typing preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
41g
Actuation force
37.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The TTC Iron and PH Studio Milk Tea both use POM housing material for their top and bottom housings, resulting in a similar sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. This creates an incredibly pleasing and unique sound that is favored by many keyboard enthusiasts. The POM material gives both switches a smooth and satisfying feel when typing, contributing to an overall enjoyable typing experience.
Despite both switches using POM housing material, there may be subtle differences in sound and feel due to variations in the design and construction of each switch. The Iron's POM housing may provide a slightly different sound profile compared to the Milk Tea, even though both fall within the deep and muted range. This could be attributed to factors such as the thickness and shape of the housing, as well as the overall design of the switch itself.
Overall, the housing material used in both the TTC Iron and PH Studio Milk Tea plays a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. While they both offer a deep, pleasing sound profile with a muted tone, there may be minor differences in the typing experience between the two switches. Whether you prefer one over the other may come down to personal preference and specific preferences in sound and feel. Nevertheless, both switches are likely to provide a high-quality typing experience that is smooth, satisfying, and enjoyable for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Iron linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, both switches are considered light in terms of force required. The Iron has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. This means that the Milk Tea is slightly lighter in both categories compared to the Iron. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milk Tea would be the preferred choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Iron may be more suitable due to its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their relatively light actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Iron linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, the Iron has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Milk Tea's 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, some may find the Iron's slightly longer travel distance to provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a faster response time with the Milk Tea or a more substantial feel with the Iron. Both switches, while slightly different in travel distance, will provide similar results in terms of typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Iron linear switch offers a clacky sound profile, which is sharp, snappy, and bright, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch delivers a unique blend of high-pitched tones with a hint of muted essence, creating a balance between presence and subtlety. Both switches provide distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience tailored to individual tastes.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Iron switch is known for its easy-to-press actuation, requiring minimal force for key activation. This light actuation not only ensures effortless typing but also reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Conversely, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch boasts a polished and silky feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing feel, catering to users with different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and responsiveness.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound signature and an easy-to-press feel, ideal for those seeking precision and quick typing sessions. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique high-pitched sound profile and a polished, silky feel, catering to users looking for a balance between sound presence and smooth typing experience. Depending on individual preferences in sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring that newcomers will find a switch that suits their needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a pronounced clacky sound signature and a buttery smooth travel with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Iron switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched yet muted sound profile and a lighter bottom out force of 43.5 grams, the Milk Tea switch would better suit your needs. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so be sure to choose based on what sound and feel you prefer in your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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