Bsun Kiki Red vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Kiki Red and the PH Studio Milk Tea, both linear switches, it's clear that they each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Kiki Reds are known for their finely-tuned typing experience, striking a balance between a high-pitched, clacky nuance and a medium-light weighting that appeals to enthusiasts who value subtlety in auditory feedback and smooth performance. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch from PH Studio, also manufactured by BSUN, boasts a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched sound that remains muted, making it a great option for those who enjoy a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
37.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Kiki Red and PH Studio Milk Tea both feature POM top and bottom housing materials, which are known for creating a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and more muted compared to other materials. This results in a satisfying typing experience that is less harsh on the ears. The similarity in housing materials means that users can expect similar sound profiles and overall typing feel from both switches.
Despite both switches utilizing POM top and bottom housings, there may still be subtle differences in the overall sound and feel between the Bsun Kiki Red and PH Studio Milk Tea. While POM housings generally create a deeper and more muted sound, factors such as design differences and manufacturing processes can impact the final result. It's worth noting that the bottom housing material typically has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material can affect the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Kiki Red and PH Studio Milk Tea may come down to personal preference and aesthetics, as the housing materials are likely to provide a similar typing experience. Both switches offer a unique sound profile that many enthusiasts enjoy, and the POM housings contribute to a smooth and satisfying typing sensation. Whether you prefer one over the other could depend on minor differences in sound and feel, as well as any additional features or design elements that may set them apart.
Weight
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams compared to the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, which has an actuation force of 37.5 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kiki Red requires 50 grams while the Milk Tea needs 43.5 grams. Both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. This means that users can expect similar typing results in terms of force required when using either switch. Overall, the Kiki Red can be considered slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Milk Tea.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches means that users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of key travel. Both switches provide a consistent and reliable amount of travel distance, resulting in a smooth typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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
The Bsun Kiki Red switch is known for its finely-tuned typing experience, offering a high-pitched, clacky sound that strikes a balance between being noticeable without being excessively loud. The POM housing and Ly stem material contribute to the unique sound signature and smooth actuation of these switches. With medium-light weighting, they provide a tactile experience preferred by enthusiasts who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch also manufactured by BSUN presents a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched sound that retains a muted essence, creating a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. The Milk Tea switch has an accessible bottom-out force of just 43.5g, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions. The Ly stem material enhances the ease of each keystroke, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience.
In terms of sound, both switches are described as producing a clacky sound, with the Milk Tea switch adding an element of high-pitched resonance and a marbly texture to the sound profile compared to the Kiki Red. When it comes to feel, the Kiki Red switch is noted for its creamy, frictionless, polished, and snappy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery feel with minimal resistance and maximum responsiveness. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch emphasizes a polished and silky typing experience, focusing on smoothness and reduced friction for a sleek typing feel. While the sound and feel of the switches have their unique nuances, both offer a satisfying typing experience tailored to different preferences. Whether you choose the Bsun Kiki Red for its clacky yet balanced sound and tactile finesse, or opt for the PH Studio Milk Tea for its muted resonance and effortless keystrokes, you can expect a quality mechanical keyboard switch that meets your typing needs effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch or the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it's important to assess your preferences and needs. If you value a finely-tuned typing experience with a medium-light weighting and a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance, the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a muted essence, a fairly high-pitched sound, and a bottom-out force designed for prolonged typing sessions, the Milk Tea switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the tactile experience, auditory feedback, and overall feel that align with your typing style and preferences.
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